Tennant, who owns Simplex Leasing, Total Solutions, Tennant Yard Management and B&B Truck and Trailer Repair, will focus his leadership efforts on Simplex Leasing as president of that company.
“The trucking industry is experiencing rapid growth, and my experience leading transportation-related companies will best be utilized at Simplex in the coming year,” said Tennant. “I’m confident in Melissa’s ability to lead Total Solutions and continue to serve our clients and expand our offerings.”
Serving clients and expanding offerings was a major focus when Pepper joined Total Solutions in 2017 as business development partner, where she grew total revenue from new and current clients in her first six months. She is also the founder of Lead(h)er, the nonprofit mentorship organization for women that has grown to over 250 mentees in two years.
A native of Byron, Illinois, Pepper graduated from Augustana College with her bachelor of arts degree in English and communication studies and her master of business administration from University of Iowa’s Tippie School of Business. An ardent supporter of the Quad Cities, Pepper serves on the Lead(h)er Board of Directors, the Q2030 Steering Committee, the Genesis Foundation Board of Directors, and the United Way of the Quad Cities Campaign Cabinet.
“The Quad Cities business community has given me so many opportunities to grow,” said Pepper. “I feel fortunate to have learned from many business owners here, including Aaron, and I am excited to lead Total Solutions in 2019.”
Pepper will lead a growing team of 17 at Total Solutions, which includes professionals handling information technology, accounting, payroll, marketing, and HR functions. Tennant will remain sole owner of Total Solutions.