Brian P. MacDonald, former chairman, president and CEO of Sunoco Inc., has been appointed CEO of Hertz Equipment Rental Corp. (HERC), according to The Hertz Corp. As part of his responsibilities, MacDonald will lead HERC's transition into a new, publicly traded company following its planned separation from Hertz, which is expected to close by early 2015.

MacDonald succeeds Lois I. Boyd, who has been with Hertz since 2007. Boyd had previously informed the company of her decision to retire her full-time position — although she has agreed to continue with HERC in an advisory capacity, says Hertz.

"Brian MacDonald brings exceptional, executive-level experience in successfully leading major corporations through periods of significant growth and change," said Mark P. Frissora, Hertz chairman and CEO. "This record, combined with his financial acumen as well as his operational and international expertise, makes him the ideal successor to lead HERC through its next phase of growth and development as a stand-alone, publicly traded company."

"I am delighted to join Hertz Equipment Rental Corporation at this exciting time in the company's 49-year history,” said MacDonald. “HERC benefits from one of the youngest and most balanced fleets in the industry, a diverse product portfolio, operational efficiencies and a broad geographic footprint. I look forward to working with HERC's management and talented employees to build on these strengths and further bolster the company's premier position in the equipment rental industry."