After 38 years of service to Coachmen, more than 14 of which have been under Forest River, Michael Terlep has announced his planned retirement at the end of this year. Terlep has been president of Coachmen RV for the last 27 years.
Terlep started with Coachmen March 15, 1984, after graduating from Purdue University. His first position was sales coordinator. Throughout his career at the company, he held several managerial and leadership positions.
Terlep said his decision to retire was a difficult one, as the better part of his life has been Coachmen and Forest River. The many valued relationships Terlep formed over his long career are his highlights, he said.
“Co-workers of present and past, dealers, customers, suppliers, industry associates … so many really good people and cherished relationships,” Terlep said.
“Over the last 27 years as president of Coachmen, we have certainly faced some challenges and opportunities,” he added. “The greatest opportunity that we were ever presented was becoming part of Forest River. Under Forest River, Coachmen regained its status of respect as a worthy competitor and trusted business partner.”
As president of Coachmen, Terlep oversaw all Coachmen, Viking and Shasta Divisions, as well as the Forest River Park Model Division.
The company said it intends to keep the Coachmen leadership strong, as a clear succession plan is in place with Bob Dumm assuming the role of president of Coachmen RV. effective Jan. 1. Dumm currently serves as the general manager of Coachmen’s laminated trailer divisions and has been part of the Coachmen leadership team since 2009.
“There is no doubt in my mind that Bob Dumm is the right individual to succeed me in my capacity,” Terlep said. “In many regards, I believe that the change will be good for Coachmen and the overall company.”
Terlep said he intends to travel with his wife of 34 years, Sheila, and spend more time with his growing family. He added, “I simply want to take the opportunity to truly focus on being a better husband, a better parent, a better grandparent, a better friend and a better Catholic. Walking away from something I love will not be easy, however walking toward something that I love even more will make it easier.”