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J. J. Keller & Associates announced today that Robert L. Keller is retiring as chairman of the company's board of directors effective January 1, 2024, becoming chairman emeritus. James J. Keller, currently treasurer and vice chairman of the board, will become chairman, effective the same day.
J.J. Keller & Associates Chairman James J. Keller
Brothers Robert Keller and James Keller—the second generation of the Keller family to have led the family-owned company—both played key roles in evolving the company their father, John J. Keller, founded in 1953, growing it from a one-man consulting firm for the transportation industry to a diversified company with more than 2,000 associates today.
Upon retiring as chairman of the board, Robert Keller leaves a legacy of care for the company’s associates and a focus on operational excellence that has enabled the company to become a trusted name in safety and regulatory compliance solutions for multiple industries across North America.
J.J. Keller & Associates Chairman Emeritus Robert L. Keller
Starting with J. J. Keller & Associates in 1957, at age 11, to help his father by doing odd jobs, Robert Keller has spent his entire career with the company. After earning an economics degree from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, he held a series of leadership roles within the company before becoming president in 1974, CEO in 1988 and then chairman of the board.
"In my time as chairman, the company grew from $100 million to nearly $400 million in less than 20 years,” said Robert Keller. “The company successfully navigated the financial crisis, a transition to technology in both process and product/service lines, leadership succession and the retirement of hundreds of management and professional/technical positions. I enjoyed the leadership challenge and supporting our CEO and leadership team."
James Keller, incoming chairman of the J. J. Keller board of directors, also began working for the company at age 11. After receiving a degree from Madison Area Technical College, in Madison, Wisc., with a focus on printing, he led the company's initial printing and distribution operations. He served as president beginning in 2006, president and CEO from 2012 to 2013, along with holding vice chair and treasurer positions on the board.
As the incoming chairman of the board, James Keller will work closely with J. J. Keller CEO Rustin Keller and the executive leadership team to ensure the company's continued growth and success.
“I am very pleased with leading J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. as chairman of the board,” said James Keller. “I have been involved for over 50 years with numerous positions, including past vice chairman, president/CEO and treasurer.
“My dad and our founder, John J. Keller, and then my brother Bob Keller were chairmen since 1953. These past 70 years have been very successful under their leadership. We have an experienced executive leadership team that has the company going full speed ahead into the future. We are all very proud of the company, what we stand for, and our 2,200 associates, who make J. J. Keller an accredited 'Great Place to Work.'”
The nine-person board of directors for privately owned J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. comprises family members and external directors and advisors.
J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. is a leading provider of safety and regulatory compliance solutions for businesses in various industries. With a commitment to innovation and customer service, the company helps organizations navigate complex regulations and maintain a safe work environment.
Visit jjkeller.com for more information.
[12.28.23]
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Kansas City, Missouri-based LEADER Worldwide recently announced a significant milestone for the company with its strategic expansion at the Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport. The $3.2 million capital investment to renovate and expand its existing headquarters at the airport as well as add to its diverse fleet of luxury vehicles is expected to net 59 new jobs and take six years to complete. LEADER currently has a team of 35 chauffeurs, dispatchers, reservation agents, and office staff.
The company was assisted by Kyana Bowers, business development officer for Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City (EDCKC), in applying for and navigating the Missouri Works program. This program helps businesses access capital through withholdings or tax credits to embark on facility expansions and create jobs and can also help businesses purchase equipment to maintain their facility in the state.
LEADER Founder & Owner Bruce Heinrich
"LEADER Worldwide is a great example of a business that sees what Kansas City has to offer and has utilized our services to accelerate their business growth over the years," says Steven Anthony, executive director of business development at EDCKC. "We wish them all the best as their expansion project kicks off."
LEADER Founder & Owner Bruce Heinrich has spoken extensively about his love for his hometown as a world-class destination and why he chose to make Kansas City the headquarters for his businesses, which includes PAX Training. He launched LEADER in 2000 and PAX in 2015.
“There is no better place than Kansas City to live, work, play. Our growing economy and diverse business landscape, make it an ideal location for our expansion. LEADER is blessed with an amazing group of clients and an incredible team of chauffeurs and office personnel who truly love what we do,” says Heinrich. “It is so rewarding to see how our years of dedication and hard work are creating not just jobs but careers. By offering our people a strong company culture of love and grace, along with competitive wages, health, vision and dental, paid PTO, a matching 401(k) and bonuses, we are offering careers that attract the true professionals that our industry needs. We have always strived to be the absolute best service provider in our industry, and I believe we are. My wife Tamiko and I are so thankful and feel so honored to be making such a positive impact in the lives of many in our community.”
Visit leaderlimo.com for more information.
[12.28.23]
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You asked for it and we listened. In this column, we ask operators of all sizes and from all walks of the industry a question about their business and report their answers so you can assess how your own company compares to your peers. If you would like to participate, please email Rob Smentek at rob@chauffeurdriven.com for next issue’s question.
TOPIC: What aspect of the CD/NLA Show do you find most beneficial for your business?
I believe the best sessions are those that are completely inclusive like the International Meet & Greet, Women in the Industry, and the DEI sessions. These amazing meetings are what maps the course for our industry to identify and highlight all operators from all creeds, beliefs, and regions from across the globe. It is paramount that industry shows like Vegas supports unity for all operators to share, collaborate, and nurture one another to be better business owners and managers. Our industry is extremely responsive to the global economy so having events like these at the show allows all industry types to create great show ROI.
Michael Barreto, President
Metropolis Passenger Logistics in Essington, Pa.
I feel the education workshops to be the most beneficial for the simple fact that you can take what you learn and put it to work immediately. I also enjoy getting to see the people and faces that I haven’t seen for a while and listening to how their business is going and any ideas they may have. The show floor is always exciting with being able to talk with the different vendors and exhibitors who attend the show. Lastly, the networking ability and seeing affiliates is crucial as we depend on each other.
Bryan Beale, General Manager
A&A Limousine Service in Northampton, Pa.
Networking, for sure: the show allows me to be right in front of people I want to meet, catch up with, and vice versa.
Nick Boccio, General Manager
Buffalo Limousine in Buffalo, N.Y.
What I find most beneficial for my business at the show are the networking events and Affiliate Central. The networking events provide a unique opportunity to connect with industry peers, potential affiliates, and thought leaders. These interactions are invaluable for building relationships, exchanging ideas, and staying abreast of the latest industry trends. These face-to-face conversations often lead to long-term partnerships and collaborations that are pivotal for business growth.
Additionally, the Affiliate Central stands out as a particularly beneficial session because it’s a goldmine for anyone involved in or interested in affiliate marketing. The practical tips and expert advice shared here directly impact our marketing approach, helping us to optimize our affiliate campaigns and maximize ROI. The combination of networking and focused learning at Affiliate Central makes it a standout feature of the show for us.
Moe Bouayad, President
Crown Worldwide Transportation in Englewood, Colo.
I would definitely say developing relationships with other operators around the country and the globe is a highlight. We send each other business, but I also go to them for advice when I have an issue at work. For example, it could be that I’m looking for another affiliate or I have a question about technology or even where to find used buses.
Kristina Bouweiri, President & CEO
Reston Limousine in Sterling, Va.
Without a doubt, what makes the CD/NLA Show so valuable is the networking. The connections that you establish within this industry are priceless and extend from large transportation companies to the one- and two-car operations. This is a small industry compared to others out there, and—no matter if you are big or small—everyone can fill a niche. I go to this show to make new acquaintances and re-establish old relationships. It is refreshing for the affiliate manager of a large transportation network, for example, to put a name and face to the individual(s)/ people that run the services in your particular area. In the end, expanding and growing your business is so very important.
David Brown, President
Premiere Transportation in Albany, N.Y.
The most beneficial aspect of the show for our business is the networking opportunities it provides. Specifically, the Affiliate Central event allows us to connect with other transportation providers and potentially grow our business.
Theresa Callahan, Co-founder
Jax Black Car in Jacksonville, Fla.
While I find all aspects of the show to be beneficial, we especially enjoy Affiliate Central as it has allowed us to expand our worldwide network by meeting potential affiliates in person. At the same time, we have become an affiliate to so many others searching for a reliable provider in the San Francisco Bay area. I feel it is important to spend time in person and perhaps share a meal with an affiliate before trusting them with our clients without knowing anything about them. I also enjoy the educational sessions and have learned so much about technology and operations that has helped me to successfully scale my business year after year. Those who don’t attend the educational sessions are missing out on a valuable opportunity for personal development.
Harry Dhillon, President
Ecko Worldwide/Hashtag Business Solutions in Santa Clara, Calif.
We find the shows extremely valuable to not only our company’s growth but our individual growth as owners. Of course, there are great networking and business opportunities but the value of learning from industry peers is beyond the price of admission. It is interesting learning best practices from those in different corners of the world and adopting them into our business. I have been a mentor at the Operator Mentoring Program a few times and that is always a fun and educating intimate experience. Meanwhile, the State of the Industry gives us a full vibe of what to expect for our future.
Jay Erlich, CEO
Europe Limousine in Paramus, N.J.
I find attending the education sessions around technology the most beneficial. Technology changes so frequently that attending these sessions is critical to keeping abreast of the many apps and services available to make our lives easier. We can learn so much from like-minded operators, both large and small, local and international, as we all tackle similar challenges from different locations. After attending, I feel more prepared and confident, and I eagerly look forward to returning home to share what I have learned with my staff and colleagues.
Joel George, Vice President
VIP Connection in Long Island City, N.Y.
When I started attending shows it was all about the education. At the time, my business was experiencing little growth, and I needed some answers. The shows provided those answers through the educational sessions. I learned new marketing ideas, different market segments, when to add to the fleet, hiring, operational costs, revenue management, etc. I left each show with a list of new things to implement and a renewed excitement in my business. Over the last seven years of attendance, my focus has shifted from a little less education to more networking. I still learn new things, but I also have industry friends all over the US and the world from whom I get mentorship, advice, and support. We talk about the things you can’t talk about with your local affiliates because you want to keep some competitive advantage. I regularly talk to about a dozen friends/operators each week. Of course, being in Florida and knowing so many other companies, we take care of their clients when they come to the Tampa/St. Petersburg area. Overall, the shows are a great experience, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them!
Thomas Halsnik, Owner
Walsh Chauffeured Transportation in Tampa, Fla.
Visiting the CD/NLA Show in Vegas is key for running a successful worldwide operation. The amount of education and networking is outstanding since all the major operators in the global market will be attending. I have been in this industry for 25 years, visited the show many times, and I enjoy meeting up with my industry friends and peers. On top of that, I still meet new people and learn something new at every visit.
Dennis Jansen, Managing Director
Holland Limousine Group in Amsterdam, The Netherlands
The most beneficial aspect of the show for my business is the marketing educational sessions, particularly those focusing on specific markets, client targeting based on region, company size, and competition analysis. While safety, maintenance, operations, and accounting remain vital, acquiring concrete market data tailored to different regions and fleet sizes is indispensable for new operators. Also, I’m looking forward to more networking social events.
Stefan Kisiov, Fleet Manager
K&G Coach Line in Park Ridge, Ill.
It’s hard to say what’s best about the show, but I think the classes. You may sit through an entire class for one priceless sentence that pays for the trip. I’m often surprised that so many sleep in instead of learning. I’m not a good networker, so forced networking events are also imperative. I met many people at the parties, mainly in the bar line, and during Affiliate Central and Operator Mentoring Program.
Gary LeCamu, Owner
Diamond Chauffeured Transportation in Hempstead, Texas
I have been attending the show for going on eight years now. During that time, I have met a lot of affiliates whom I can now call personal friends. One thing I never did up until this last show was attend the Operator Mentoring Program, let alone be a mentor for the program. When they said it was a two-hour session, I thought the time would drag on; however, when I sat down at the table and started talking with everyone, the two hours flew by like it was 20 minutes. By attending that program and hearing real people in front of me talk about similar issues they were having and what they did to overcome them was huge. I have often posted questions on Facebook groups, but nothing compared to the answers and questions I got when attending the Mentoring Program. I would strongly suggest signing up at the next show if you have never done it before.
Denny Leinhos, President
Avant Garde Limousines & Coach in Indianapolis, Ind.
The Operator Mentoring Program is one of the most valuable parts for many of us, as we can share ideas, solutions, and hear from leaders of the industry on how we can make our business model more profitable is always important. Seminars in the limousine industry are crucial for networking, showcasing new technologies, and fostering collaboration among professionals. They provide a platform for sharing industry insights, discussing trends, and promoting innovation in the luxury transportation sector. Additionally, sessions contribute to the continuous education of industry stakeholders, ensuring they stay informed about advancements and best practices.
Robert Rodríguez, President/CEO
First Class Destination Solutions in Carolina, Puerto Rico
There are so many great things to learn at all the shows, especially Las Vegas. Each show, I get something different to bring home. I always make new connections and learn nuggets in some of the most unexpected places and times. Out of everything, I love the networking and getting to know new people—which also speaks to my personality type and the fact that I’ve been attending the shows forever.
Tracy Salinger, President
Unique Limousine in Harrisburg, Pa.
The education and sessions are always top notch; you are guaranteed to learn something new or interesting you can implement right away. Without a doubt, being able to visit with industry friends, new and old, is the best way to help you stand out in your market, as well as to meet operators in areas you may need assistance in. The Operator Mentoring session is one of my favorites as it’s a more intimate roundtable. With so much opportunity, the only way to lose is to not go!
Quentin Shackelford, Owner
AllClassLimo.com in Wichita, Kan.
The show is great for business: we enjoy the education, the State of the Industry, and the networking, but for us it’s more about connecting and spending quality time with our friends that we rarely get to see, and about making and hanging with new friends.
Ron Stein, Owner
Exclusive Sedan Service in Newhall, Calif.
As the affiliate manager overseeing global partnerships for our company, I’ve found trade shows to be invaluable. Participating in Affiliate Central has significantly expanded our network, fostering numerous partnership opportunities worldwide. They’ve also been a cornerstone for elevating our brand visibility across diverse markets. Attending trade shows allows us to stay at the forefront of industry trends while presenting our services to a broad audience. These experiences continually prove instrumental in our business growth and development.
Andrew Tighe, Affiliate Relations Director
RMA Worldwide Chauffeured Transportation in Boston, Mass.
We’ve loved hearing your answers to our benchmarking questions—but we always welcome suggestions for future topics, too!
Send an email to rob@chauffeurdriven.com you just might see your query answered in our next e-News.
[12.27.23]