Blue Bird Appoints John Wyskiel as New President and CEO for Strategic Growth

Blue Bird Corporation Appoints John Wyskiel as New President and CEO

Blue Bird Corporation, a prominent name in the electric and low-emission school bus industry, recently announces the appointment of John Wyskiel as its new President and CEO, effective February 17, 2025. Wyskiel replaces Phil Horlock, who has played a pivotal role in the company since 2011, including a recent reappointment in May 2023. Horlock will remain on the Board of Directors to ensure a seamless leadership transition. Wyskiel's extensive background in the automotive sector positions him as a strong candidate to lead Blue Bird into its next phase of growth and innovation.

Having amassed over 35 years of experience, Wyskiel brings valuable insights in manufacturing leadership and operational excellence. His previous tenure at Blue Bird Coach in Canada from 2002 to 2004 gave him firsthand experience with the company’s operations. More recently, he has served as President at Magna Seating, where he oversaw a $6 billion business with a workforce of 33,000 across 60 facilities in 15 countries. His track record of success in senior roles at esteemed companies such as Magna, Dana Corporation, and Borg Warner underscores his capability to spearhead Blue Bird's initiatives in electric and low-emission vehicle technology.

Doug Grimm, Chairman of Blue Bird, expresses confidence in Wyskiel's ability to drive the company forward, particularly in enhancing operational efficiency and manufacturing practices. He highlights the importance of Wyskiel's expertise at a time when Blue Bird is recognized for its innovation in technology, a reputation it has built since its inception in 1927. Under Horlock's leadership, the company has achieved record levels of profitability, margins, and liquidity over the past two years, setting a strong foundation for Wyskiel to build upon as he returns to the organization.

In addition to Wyskiel's appointment, Blue Bird's leadership transition reflects the company's commitment to maintaining its position as an industry leader. The combination of Wyskiel's operational acumen and Horlock's ongoing involvement on the Board promises to foster stability and growth in an increasingly competitive market for electric school buses. As the demand for eco-friendly transportation solutions continues to rise, Blue Bird aims to leverage its technological innovations and experienced leadership to meet the evolving needs of school districts across the nation.

As Blue Bird prepares for this new chapter, the focus remains on enhancing its electric and low-emission offerings. The company's strategic direction under Wyskiel is expected to prioritize sustainable operations and high-performance team building, enabling Blue Bird to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead in the green transportation sector.