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Forest River Updates Leadership Team

The bus and van manufacturer says the new appointments and added roles are aimed at enhancing operations, customer support, and company growth.

Forest River Updates Leadership Team

Among the new roles are a new division president, sales director, customer experience director, and dealer experience director. Pictured here is (L to R): Matt Steele, Ryan Lamb, Mike Terlep, and Douglas Wright.

Photo: Forest River/School Bus Fleet

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Forest River Bus & Van announced a series of leadership changes aimed at strengthening operations, enhancing the customer experience, and supporting long-term growth.

Douglas Wright has been named president of the Bus, Van, and Marine divisions. He has more than three decades of experience in the automotive industry.

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“This company was built by people who care deeply about what they do — and who they do it for,” Wright said. “Our responsibility now is to carry that legacy forward while continuing to refine and elevate the customer journey.

Forest River leader Mike Terlep is the newly appointed director of sales for the Bus division. Terlep will lead all sales efforts across government, commercial, and dealer channels in North America, pulling from his RV and commercial transportation experience.

“There’s no substitute for consistency and follow-through,” Terlep said. “We’ve built a strong foundation, and I’m excited to help carry that forward, ensuring every agency, fleet, and dealer experiences the strength of our commitment.”

Forest River has also introduced two new roles:

  • Ryan Lamb has been named director of customer experience, leading efforts to bring greater continuity, speed, and clarity to every customer touchpoint. Lamb has nearly two decades in commercial vehicle manufacturing.

  • Matt Steele has been named director of dealer experience. With a background in product development, dealer operations, and customer service, Steele’s mission is to make it easier than ever for Forest River’s network of dealers to succeed.

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“We’re redefining support — not just a call center or a policy, but a part of everything we do to build, deliver, and maintain vehicles that truly matter,” Wright said. “Our work isn’t only about vehicles — it’s about independence, opportunity, and everyday life. We are transporting what matters.”

Forest River acquired both Collins Bus and Trans Tech in recent years.

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