Standard Motor Products Elevates Sunil Bhandari to COO, Burke Moves to Advisor
Effective June 1, Standard Motor Products will shift COO James Burke to Executive Advisor and Board member after 47 years with the company. Sunil Bhandari, formerly VP of Global Aftermarket at Eaton, will become COO, bringing 25 years of global manufacturing, supply chain and engineering leadership.
1. Executive Leadership Transition
Standard Motor Products announced that James Burke will step down as Chief Operating Officer on June 1 after a 47-year tenure, transitioning to Executive Advisor while retaining his Board seat. Sunil Bhandari will assume the COO role on the same date to oversee all global operations.
2. James Burke’s Legacy and New Role
Burke has served SMP in operational, financial and managerial capacities since joining the company, contributing to its expansion in aftermarket and OEM parts. In his new position as Executive Advisor, he will guide strategic initiatives and mentor the leadership team.
3. Sunil Bhandari’s Appointment and Expertise
Bhandari brings over 25 years of leadership across manufacturing, distribution, supply chain and engineering in both OE and aftermarket sectors. His recent role as Vice President of Global Aftermarket at Eaton and international experience position him to drive disciplined execution across SMP’s complex global footprint.