EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. – Winnebago Industries Inc. today (Aug. 24) announced the planned retirement of Matt Miller, president of Newmar Corporation, effective Sept. 3. Miller started his career at Newmar in 1991 and has been president since 2006.
“We would like to thank Matt for his incredible leadership at Newmar and for being a valued member of the Winnebago Industries Executive Leadership Team,” said Winnebago Industries President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Happe. “Matt’s contributions are reflected in his ability to drive an engaged and healthy employee culture resulting in Newmar’s Class A Diesel market share growth and an unmatched reputation for building high-quality, premium RVs. His involvement in RV Industry Association efforts is reflective of his commitment to drive quality, innovation and service inside Newmar and the RV industry.”
While at Newmar, Miller was fundamental in guiding the company forward through dynamic times developing a strong culture committed to continuous improvement, craftsmanship, and overall excellence. He was also active within the RV industry serving on the RV Industry Association (RVIA) board of directors and is a leading proponent of elevating service in the industry. Miller was instrumental in the development of the RV Technical institute (RVTI) in Elkhart, Ind., and previously served as chairman of the organization.
Brian Hazelton will assume the role as president of Newmar Corporation effective Aug. 27, with the existing Newmar leadership team continuing fully intact. Following his retirement, Miller will continue as a strategic advisor. Hazelton will transition to Newmar after most recently serving as the senior vice president, Winnebago-brand RVs. A five-year veteran of Winnebago Industries, Hazelton has helped guide a transformation of the Winnebago motorhome business through new product development efforts, building strong dealer relationships and driving service excellence.
“Brian’s proven motorhome experience, familiarity with the RV industry and commitment to serving dealers and retail customers will prove invaluable as we continue to grow the legacy of building high-quality Newmar products,” said Happe. “We look forward to the contributions Brian and the entire Newmar leadership team will drive in the years to come.
RVIA issued the following statement upon the announcement of Miller’s retirement:
“Matt Miller has been a tremendous leader in the RV industry, dedicating his time and expertise as a member of both the RV Industry Association Board of Directors and Executive Committee. His strong commitment to customer service, product quality, and elevating service is evident in his work as the head of Newmar and through his involvement in the development of the RV Technical Institute, where he served as the first Chairman of the organization. In recognition of his service to the industry, Matt was awarded the 2014 Distinguished Service to the RV Industry Award as well as the 2018 Distinguished Achievement in RV Standards Award.
“He has held other key leadership roles in the Association, including Secretary and Treasurer on the Executive Committee and Chair of the Standards Steering Committee, Nominating Committee, and Strategic Planning Committee. He has also served as a member of the Audit Committee, RVDA/RVIA Certification Governing Board, Public Relations Committee, Awards Committee, and Governance Committee.
“Matt always made time for Association projects and staff and remains passionate about the organization and the RV industry. We are all better off personally and professionally because of the contributions made by Matt and we wish him and his family all the best in their future endeavors.”
