MADISON, Ind. — Grote Industries’ president and chief operating officer, Eric Morris, celebrated his 30-year anniversary with the company last week. A native of Stratford, Ont., Morris started his career in the automotive industry with Fram Canada, gaining in-depth experience in customer service, product development and sales.

Morris joined Grote Canada in 1978 as general manager and was eventually named president. As president, Morris led the company’s growth as the number one supplier of truck lighting and safety equipment in the Canadian marketplace, officials said.

His performance in Canada was instrumental in his promotion to the position of executive vice-president of Grote Industries at their world headquarters in Madison, Ind. in 2000. Morris has lead Grote sales efforts throughout North America, and his leadership has been a critical component to Grote’s gains in market share across all three North American markets.

In December 2003, Grote Industries announced the appointment of Morris to president and chief operating officer, responsible for all Grote operations. William D. “Bill” Grote continues to serve the company now as its CEO and chairman of the board.

“This is just the beginning,” Morris said. “Grote is, and will continue to be, the leader in vehicle safety systems and engineered lighting solutions for many years to come. I have enjoyed my career with Grote and I am excited to continue bringing Grote’s innovations to the global marketplace.”