Nelligan leaves, Harper takes over

TORONTO — Paul Harper, co-president of Harper Truck Centres, has taken over the reins as dealer principal after the company bought out equity partner John Nelligan, who previously held that role as well as the general manager title.

Nelligan joined the Harper group of companies four years ago, having previously headed Sterling/Western Star in Canada.

Mr. Harper, co-owner of the Harper group of companies founded by his father, has more than 25 years experience in the truck service and support business.

The group began with a Detroit Diesel distributorship which it still runs, while also selling and servicing Mercedes-Benz and Deutz engines, Allison transmissions, plus Freightliner, Western Star, FUSO, Sterling, and Condor Trucks.

The company has Ontario dealership operations in Mississauga, Milton, Oshawa, and Woodbridge.

"The Harper organization is committed to providing exceptional service and support to our customers. The needs of our customers will continue to shape our vision moving forward and we will aggressively strive to meet, and exceed such needs,” said Paul Harper in a press release.

Nelligan is already in talks with interested employers and is likely to rejoin the OEM world.