Dutch truck manufacturer DAF Trucks N.V. is gaining new top leadership. Jim Walenczak takes over as President on 1 July 2026. He succeeds Harald Seidel, who is stepping down from the operational business after 25 years with PACCAR.
Jim Walenczak becomes the new President of DAF Trucks N.V.
Jim Walenczak will take on one of the key leadership roles within the PACCAR Group. The change in leadership will take effect on 1 July 2026. Walenczak succeeds Harald Seidel, who is stepping down on 17 July 2026.
Experienced PACCAR manager takes the helm at DAF Trucks
Walenczak has worked at PACCAR for 15 years. During this time, he held several positions with growing responsibility. First, he led the Operations division as Assistant General Manager at PACCAR Parts. He then took charge of Sales & Marketing at subsidiary Kenworth.
Most recently, he led the Kenworth Truck Company as PACCAR Vice President and General Manager. As a result, he brings extensive operational experience in the international commercial vehicle business. Moreover, he knows the group structures from several perspectives.
Solid academic background and international profile
Walenczak earned a Bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University. He then obtained an M.B.A. from the University of Washington. In addition, he completed the renowned Stanford Executive Program. This combination of theory and practice qualifies him for the leadership role in Eindhoven.
Harald Seidel leaves DAF Trucks after 25 years
Seidel shaped DAF Trucks significantly. Since 2022, he served as President of DAF and Vice President of PACCAR. Before that, he also held various positions, such as Group Controller and DAF Finance Director. PACCAR CEO Preston Feight expressly praised him for his leadership strength.
Strategic significance for the European truck market
DAF Trucks ranks among the leading European commercial vehicle manufacturers. Therefore, the appointment carries considerable significance in both corporate-law and strategic terms. The new President will help steer topics such as electric mobility, hydrogen drivetrains and EU climate regulation. Walenczak is also likely to keep a close eye on the market position in the Swiss transport sector.
Who is Jim Walenczak?
Jim Walenczak is a long-standing PACCAR manager. He has worked at the group for 15 years. Most recently, he led the Kenworth Truck Company as Vice President and General Manager.
When does Jim Walenczak take over at DAF Trucks?
Walenczak takes up his new role as President of DAF Trucks N.V. on 1 July 2026.
Seidel is retiring from the operational business after 25 years at PACCAR. His last working day is 17 July 2026.
