Richard Childress Racing promotes Mike Verlander to President, Torrey Galida named Vice Chairman

Just days before the NASCAR season is set to start with the running of the Daytona 500, Richard Childress Racing has announced some key executive leadership changes in the organization.

RCR has promoted former chief operating officer Mike Verlander to the president of the company. In his new role, Verlander is responsible for overseeing all day-to-day operations of RCR Enterprises, LLC, including RCR’s NASCAR race team, as well as RCR Manufacturing Solutions, RCR Graphics, ECR Engines, and Childress Technologies.

He will also serve on the Board of Directors for RCR and will report directly to Richard Childress.

“I am extremely thankful to Richard and Judy for this opportunity to lead RCR as we continue to expand our operations within the motorsports industry and beyond,” Verlander said in a press release. “Having Torrey close by as an advisor while I make this transition is invaluable. I’m ready to build up on the great things achieved by Torrey and the whole leadership team. Great days are coming for our employees, partners, fans, and all stakeholders.”

As part of the changes at Richard Childress Racing, former president Torrey Galida will be stepping down and moving to a role as vice chairman.

Galida has served as the organization’s president since 2014 and is the only person other than Childress to carry the title of president.

“I have been honored to play a role in RCR’s success during my tenure as president,” Galida said in a press release. “I can’t thank Richard and Judy, and the entire organization, enough for the past fourteen years and I feel lucky to have been part of this team. I’m looking forward to this next chapter of my career where I can focus on key strategic operations within the RCR organization and continue to make an impact.”

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Richard Childress Racing also saw the big man himself comment on the new changes.

“Torrey has been a tremendous asset to RCR in his role as president,” said Childress. “He has been a strong leader and helped us navigate many changes and challenges over recent years. I am proud of the work that he has done and the direction he has led the organization. He will continue to contribute to our future.

“Mike has also done a great job this past year in his role as chief operating officer as he has learned all aspects of our organization. He has a clear vision for our future and will foster a culture that inspires our entire team. I look forward to seeing our continued growth under his leadership.”

Richard Childress Racing notes that both moves are now effective immediately.