Group 1 Automotive Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Group 1 Automotive has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, marketing, human resources, and information technology.

Driven by a commitment to customer satisfaction, Group 1 Automotive operates a diversified dealership network across the U.S. and U.K. markets, offering comprehensive automotive retail services and aiming for sustained growth and operational excellence.

Leadership Roles at Group 1 Automotive

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Daryl Kenningham
  • Chief Financial Officer, Region - Robert Kennedy
  • Regional Chief Financial Officer - Allen Grimes
  • Executive Assistant To Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer - Rachel Ballard
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer - Shelley Washburn
  • Vice President & Chief Information Officer - James Druzbik
  • Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer - Melkeya McDuffie
  • Daryl Kenningham - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Daryl Kenningham, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Group 1 Automotive, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the international automotive retailer. Kenningham guides the company's expansion and performance across its franchised dealerships in the U.S. and U.K. markets. This leadership role involves setting the vision for sales, financing, maintenance, repair, and collision services, ensuring alignment with market demands and corporate objectives. Overseeing the entire enterprise, Daryl Kenningham drives initiatives to enhance customer satisfaction and shareholder value. The President & Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on optimizing the diversified dealership network and solidifying Group 1 Automotive's position as a leading automotive retailer through strategic acquisitions and operational efficiencies.
    Daryl Kenningham

    Robert Kennedy - Chief Financial Officer, Region

    Robert Kennedy, the Chief Financial Officer, Region at Group 1 Automotive, manages the financial operations and strategic fiscal planning for specific geographic regions within the company's extensive network. Kennedy oversees budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring fiscal discipline and profitability across U.S. and U.K. dealership operations. This role involves analyzing financial performance, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and supporting regional leadership with financial insights to drive business growth. The Chief Financial Officer, Region also plays a part in capital allocation and investment decisions, contributing to the overall financial health of the automotive retail segments. By maintaining robust financial controls, Robert Kennedy ensures compliance and supports the company's mission of delivering exceptional automotive services.

    Allen Grimes - Regional Chief Financial Officer

    Allen Grimes, the Regional Chief Financial Officer at Group 1 Automotive, is responsible for the financial oversight and strategic fiscal management of designated regions within the company's automotive retail network. Grimes directs financial planning, budgeting, and performance analysis, ensuring profitability and operational efficiency across multiple dealerships. This position involves identifying financial risks and opportunities, implementing cost-control measures, and supporting regional leadership with actionable financial insights. The Regional Chief Financial Officer also contributes to capital allocation strategies and ensures adherence to financial regulations and reporting standards. By maintaining rigorous financial discipline, Allen Grimes supports the sustained success and expansion of Group 1 Automotive's U.S. and U.K. operations.

    Rachel Ballard - Executive Assistant To Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer

    Rachel Ballard, the Executive Assistant To Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Group 1 Automotive, provides critical administrative and operational support to senior leadership within the human resources function. Ballard manages complex scheduling, coordinates executive communications, and facilitates the smooth operation of the HR department's strategic initiatives. This role involves handling confidential information and ensuring efficient workflow for key personnel decisions and employee relations matters. The Executive Assistant To Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer supports the development and implementation of HR policies and programs that align with the company's overall business objectives. By maintaining organized records and managing executive correspondence, Rachel Ballard contributes to the effective management of Group 1 Automotive's workforce.

    Shelley Washburn - Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer

    Shelley Washburn, the Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Group 1 Automotive, directs all marketing strategies and brand initiatives across the company's extensive U.S. and U.K. dealership network. Washburn oversees the development and execution of campaigns designed to drive customer acquisition, enhance brand loyalty, and increase sales of new and used vehicles, financing, and after-sales services. This leadership position involves analyzing market trends, understanding consumer behavior, and leveraging data analytics to optimize marketing spend and maximize return on investment. The Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer collaborates closely with sales and operational teams to ensure a cohesive customer experience. By shaping the company's market presence, Shelley Washburn significantly contributes to Group 1 Automotive's revenue growth and competitive positioning.

    James Druzbik - Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    James Druzbik, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Group 1 Automotive, leads the company's technology strategy and information systems infrastructure across its international operations. Druzbik oversees the development, implementation, and maintenance of IT solutions that support sales, service, finance, and administrative functions within the franchised dealerships. This role involves managing cybersecurity, data management, and digital transformation initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and customer engagement. The Vice President & Chief Information Officer ensures that technology investments align with business objectives and support the company's growth in the U.S. and U.K. markets. By driving technological innovation, James Druzbik plays a crucial part in modernizing Group 1 Automotive's retail operations and ensuring data integrity.
    James Druzbik

    Melkeya McDuffie - Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer

    Melkeya McDuffie, the Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer at Group 1 Automotive, leads the comprehensive human resources strategy and talent management initiatives for the organization. McDuffie oversees all aspects of employee relations, organizational development, compensation, benefits, and workforce planning across the U.S. and U.K. markets. This executive role focuses on fostering a positive and productive work environment, attracting and retaining top talent, and ensuring that HR practices align with the company's strategic goals and values. The Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer champions initiatives that enhance employee engagement and support the professional growth of the workforce. By developing and implementing effective people strategies, Melkeya McDuffie is instrumental in building a strong organizational culture and driving employee success at Group 1 Automotive.
    Melkeya McDuffie

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Group 1 Automotive Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Group 1 Automotive?
    Group 1 Automotive is led by Daryl Kenningham (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Robert Kennedy (Chief Financial Officer, Region) and Allen Grimes (Regional Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Group 1 Automotive’s executive team?
    The executive team of Group 1 Automotive includes leaders such as Daryl Kenningham (President & Chief Executive Officer), Robert Kennedy (Chief Financial Officer, Region), Allen Grimes (Regional Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Group 1 Automotive have?
    Group 1 Automotive has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Group 1 Automotive’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Group 1 Automotive includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Region, Regional Chief Financial Officer, Executive Assistant To Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer.