Dan Frank has been named the chief executive officer of Wheels, Inc., as his father Jim Frank transitions from that role to executive chairman of the board, the fleet management company announced.

Jim Frank has served as CEO of Wheels since 1974 and as company president for the past 40 years. He joined the company in 1967. Jim Frank's father, Zollie Frank, and Armund Schoen founded the company in 1939 as the first fleet lessor.

"I feel fortunate to have been able to spend so many years learning from the best in the business, and to have a strong management team with extensive experience," Dan Frank said. "Wheels is a world-class organization that prides itself on exceptional client service. I look forward to continuing to enhance our capabilities to keep drivers safe, productive and satisfied, while at the same time ensuring cost-efficient fleets."

Dan Frank becomes only the third CEO in the company's history, following Schoen and Jim Frank — both members of Automotive Fleet's Fleet Hall of Fame. He was selected by the Wheels board of directors, which consists of two company executives and four independent directors.

Dan Frank brings more than 20 years of experience at the company to the role. He was promoted to president in 2014.

In that role, he led the company's development of new products — including a reimbursement offering — and enhancement of its technology platform. He also offered "thoughtful solutions for client challenges caused by credit market disruptions, natural disasters, OEM recalls and other issues," according to the company.

Dan Frank also serves as vice president for government affairs at the American Automotive Leasing Association. He represents the fleet industry before the U.S. Congress, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and other regulatory agencies. He also serves on the board of the National Safety Council.