Standard Motor Products, Inc. Announces Executive Leadership Changes

About this update from Standard Motor Products, Inc.

NEW YORK, May 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Standard Motor Products, Inc. (NYSE: SMP), a leading automotive parts manufacturer and distributor, announced today Mr. James Burke has informed the Company of his intention to step down from his role as Chief Operating Officer, effective June 1, 2026. Mr. Burke will continue to serve on the leadership team as Executive Advisor, and as a member of the Board of Directors. Eric Sills, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, stated, "After 47 years with SMP, Jim has decided to step down from his role as Chief Operating Officer. On behalf of our Board of Directors, leadership team, and all SMP employees, I want to thank Jim for his outstanding leadership and dedication. Jim's operational, financial, managerial, and industry expertise has been invaluable, and his impact on our Company is difficult to overstate. We are pleased he will continue to support SMP as Executive Advisor and a member of our Board. "As Jim begins this next chapter, we are fortunate to benefit from the strong leadership bench and talented employees he has helped develop. We look forward to working with him and continuing to draw on his deep knowledge of our business and industry." Mr. Burke commented, "It has been a privilege to spend my career at SMP and to work alongside such a talented and committed team. I'm proud of what we've accomplished together and am confident SMP is well-positioned for the future. While I will miss the day-to-day work, I look forward to supporting a smooth transition and continuing to contribute as Executive Advisor." SMP is pleased to announce that Mr. Sunil Bhandari will be named Chief Operations Officer, effective June 1, 2026, and will be responsible for all SMP's operations globally. Mr. Bhandari brings more than 25 years of global business and operations leadership covering general management, manufacturing, distribution, supply chain, and engineering, spanning both OE and aftermarket businesses in the electrical and automotive sectors. He spent the past 14 years at Eaton Corporation plc, holding various leadership roles of increasing scope, most recently serving as Vice President, Global Aftermarket - Mobility Group. Over the years he has lived and worked in North America, Europe and Asia. Mr. Bhandari holds an M.B.A. from the International Institute for Management Development ...

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