Key Personnel
Gilbert Hanks - CEO
The driving force behind Auto Carrier Express is Gilbert Hanks, co-founder and chief executive officer. Ultimately responsible for all aspects of ACE’s strategy, operations and execution, the buck stops at Gilbert’s desk. In 1997, at the request of Southeast Toyota, which wanted to partner with a dependable vehicle transportation company, Gilbert established ACE. To meet the challenge, Gilbert created a strong platform of technology and high-quality assets. Naturally, this attracted some of the best people in the trucking industry, and the rest is history. The company was destined to perform consistently and maintain steady growth. Prior to ACE, Gilbert was co-founder of Centurion Auto Transport, starting in 1973. By 1989 the company was running a fleet of over 250 trucks.
William Mauldin – Vice President
William’s responsibilities include strengthening current relationships, providing technical and financial management expertise, and identifying and acquiring new business for the expanding fleet. Before joining ACE in 2009, Mr. Mauldin worked for over 14 years in the Automobile Transport Industry, serving customers such as Southeast Toyota, Toyota Logistics Services, Mercedes Benz USA, Maserati, BMW of North America, smart USA and Volkswagen of America to name a few. His experience recapitalizing auto transport companies is extensive, as well. In that vein, William has developed relationships over the years with various investors in the Auto Transport Industry. William has also held several operational and relationship management roles, serving the auto transport market from the ground up. Prior to entering the transportation industry, William graduated from Florida State University (BS Finance & International Business) and the University of Florida (MBA).
Paul Just - General Manager
In his role, Paul is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, including driver management, load distribution, load building and liaising with customers. Prior to joining the company in 1999, Paul’s 28-year career included experience as a dispatcher, driver and operations manager. He also spearheaded the setup, hiring and daily operations for several terminals. In short, his hands-on management style is the result of knowing every job from the ground up.
Christopher Hanks - Fleet Manager
As Fleet Manger for ACE, Christopher ensures the efficient employment and operation of ACE’s physical assets. During his time at ACE, Christopher has developed a set of efficient fleet management practices and technologies, which have allowed for increased efficiencies, improved maintenance levels and reduced downtime. Prior to joining ACE in 2005, Christopher served in the US Navy for seven years before moving on to construction management and supervision of large installations for commercial projects.