Fort Smith, AR – April 22, 2025 – Cloyes Gear & Products, Inc. (“Cloyes”), the global leader and designer of mission-critical timing drive systems and components for the automotive aftermarket, proudly announces that CEO John Hanighen has been named a finalist for the prestigious Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2025 Southwest Award.
Now in its 40th year, the Entrepreneur Of The Year program celebrates visionary leaders and game-changing companies that are transforming industries, shaping a better future, and making a lasting impact in their communities. Hanighen is among 42 finalists recognized for their entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and purposeful leadership.
“I’m deeply honored to be selected as a finalist,” said Hanighen. “The success we’ve experienced is a testament to the outstanding team and the unique, inclusive, and entrepreneurial culture we’ve fostered at Cloyes.”
Hanighen’s leadership has propelled Cloyes to new heights, defined by relentless innovation, operational excellence, and a commitment to empowering both customers and employees. Under his direction, Cloyes has executed strategic acquisitions—including Rotomaster and ATI—that have fueled sustained growth and industry dominance.
Cloyes has also maintained an industry-leading 97.5%+ order fill-rate, reflecting its intense focus on execution, customer satisfaction, and supply chain performance. These achievements are driven by a tightly aligned culture of collaboration between sales, operations, and engineering teams—especially in forecasting demand and launching new products at scale.
Innovation at Cloyes extends beyond product development. The company’s robust training initiatives—including popular live webinars and a YouTube training library with over 8 million views—equip customers with the knowledge they need to do the job right the first time.
“This recognition reflects John’s forward-thinking vision and dedication,” said a Cloyes spokesperson. “His people-first approach, deep integrity, and commitment to excellence continue to inspire our entire organization.”
Regional award winners will be announced on June 21 during a special celebration in Dallas and will become lifetime members of an esteemed community of Entrepreneur Of The Year alumni from around the world. The winners will then be considered by the National judges for the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Awards, which will be presented in November at the annual Strategic Growth Forum®, one of the nation’s most prestigious gatherings of high-growth, market-leading companies.
About Cloyes
Cloyes, based in Fort Smith, AR, is the North American leader and global designer, developer, manufacturer and distributor of timing drive systems and components for the automotive aftermarket. Its products are mission-critical components for engine performance and function used in high-performance and replacement applications. Cloyes serves a broad customer base, including wholesale distributors, national and local retailers, re-packagers, and production engine builders, and sells its products under the Cloyes® brand throughout North America and Dynagear® in Mexico. To learn more, visit www.cloyes.com.
About Entrepreneur Of The Year®:
Entrepreneur Of The Year® is the world’s most prestigious business awards program for entrepreneurs and leaders of high-growth companies. Founded in 1986 by Ernst & Young LLP, the program recognizes unstoppable entrepreneurs making a difference through innovation, growth, and purpose.
Media contact:
Daniel Lewis
daniel.lewis@cloyes.com
(614) 256-1652
