Forest River Announces Management Updates
Effective immediately, Forest River Inc. will be led by co-CEOs and a CFO, allowing the company to continue its commitment to delivering products and services, while addressing the unique needs of its diverse business divisions.

While the leadership structure marks a new phrase for Forest River, it is built upon decades of experience, deep industry knowledge, and shared commitment to the company’s people, culture, values, and mission, according to Forest River officials.
Photo: Forest River
Forest River announced its new management team, which will succeed Founder/CEO Pete Liegl, following his passing in November.
Effective immediately, Forest River Inc. will be led by co-CEOs and a CFO, allowing the company to continue its commitment to delivering products and services, while addressing the unique needs of its diverse business divisions.
Forest River’s New Leadership
The new management team includes Doug Gaeddert, Co-CEO; David Wright, Co-CEO; and Darrel Ritchie, CFO.
Together the three will co-manage the overall strategic direction of Forest River, with Gaeddert directly running the RV division and Wright directly running the Commercial, Bus & Van, and Marine Divisions.
“Pete’s vision and dedication were fundamental to Forest River’s growth and success,” quoted a joint statement. “As we move forward, we are confident that the strong foundation he built will continue to inspire and guide us.”
Forging Forward
While the leadership structure marks a new phrase for Forest River, it is built upon decades of experience, deep industry knowledge, and shared commitment to the company’s people, culture, values, and mission, according to Forest River officials.
Officials went on to say that the continuity will enhance the company’s ability to meet the needs of its customers, dealers, and employees effectively with little disruption.
More Management

Bringing Austin’s First Light Rail System to Life
Austin Transit Partnership CEO Greg Canally discusses the city's nearly 10-mile light rail project, its collaborative approach to project delivery, the importance of community engagement, and the milestones ahead as construction approaches in 2027.
Read More →
ETA CEO John Maglio on Transit Technology, Innovation, and Building Agency Trust
ETA founder and CEO John Maglio explores the evolution of transit technology, the importance of reliable systems, and how stronger partnerships can help agencies improve operations and the passenger experience.
Read More →
Metra Draft Plan Outlines Costs, Service Improvements for Regional Rail
The Systemwide Network Plan identifies infrastructure needs and potential investments to expand all-day, bidirectional rail service across the Chicago region.
Read More →
New Orleans RTA Names Augustine III as New CEO
In this edition, we also spotlight recent personnel moves at HDR, PATH, STV, and more, highlighting the people taking on new roles across the transportation industry.
Read More →
How Transit Agencies Are Using Free Rides to Improve Voting Access
Transit agencies are using fare-free service, trip-planning tools, and targeted rides to improve voting access. See what other agencies can learn from these efforts.
Read More →
Caltrain’s Electrification Drives a New Era of Ridership Growth
The railroad’s shift to electric service has brought more frequent trains, stronger customer satisfaction, and increased ridership, earning it APTA’s Outstanding Public Transportation System award.
Read More →
Chicago, Charlotte Transit Agencies Expand Rider Support Programs
CTA launched crisis intervention teams as CATS prepares to deploy fare ambassadors, expanding customer assistance and security efforts across both systems.
Read More →
New York MTA Launches Historic $1.9B Signal, Track Modernization Project
Funded in part by congestion pricing revenue, the project will replace nearly century-old signals along the A and C lines in Brooklyn and Queens.
Read More →
Brian Dickson on Building Stronger, More Resilient Transportation Organizations
Bus Business Consultants Founder Brian Dickson discusses the leadership principles, operational discipline, and strategic planning that separate transportation companies positioned for long-term success from those stuck in survival mode.
Read More →
LA Metro Breaks Ground on Vermont BRT Project
The 12.4-mile corridor is projected to serve 66,200 daily riders, reduce travel times by up to 24%, and create the nation's busiest bus rapid transit corridor.
Read More →