Bill Wade is the managing partner of Wade&Partners, a consulting firm that specializes in the worldwide vehicle parts and service aftermarket and industrial distribution. Prior to starting this firm, Wade was CEO of leading manufacturing companies including Durakon Industries (light truck accessories), FAG Bearings (heavy industrial components) and CR Services/SKF (vehicle and industrial parts). He also held senior management positions with Stant (Gates) Corporation and Parker Hannifin Automotive. He is the founder of FleetPride Corporation, a large, independent distributor of heavy truck parts and service, and is known as an expert in the economics of distribution and family business.

Wade also has provided leadership for various industry education initiatives, including the Global Automotive Aftermarket Scholarship program and the University of the Aftermarket at Northwood University.

Wade has authored numerous publications and articles, including the Power of One, Introduction to the Heavy Duty Aftermarket, and Aspects: Economics of Heavy Duty Truck Parts and Service Marketing distributor training programs. He is a frequent speaker to both manufacturer and distributor groups in North America, South America and Europe.

He has been actively involved with various industry associations, having served on the boards of the Motor Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA), the Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA), the Council of Fleet Specialists (CFS), the Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) and the Automotive Sales Council (ASC).

Wade is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and holds a Master of Management degree from Northwestern University. He is an adjunct professor at Northwood University.