Group 1 Automotive Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Group 1 Automotive has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, marketing, technology, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to automotive excellence, Group 1 Automotive operates as a premier international automotive retailer, dedicated to providing comprehensive vehicle solutions and exceptional customer experiences across the United States and the United Kingdom.

Leadership Roles at Group 1 Automotive

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Daryl Kenningham
  • Regional Chief Financial Officer - Allen Grimes
  • Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Daniel McHenry
  • President - Charles Winton
  • President - Sharon Saunders
  • Executive Assistant To Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer - Rachel Ballard
  • Vice President & Chief Information Officer - James Druzbik
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer - Shelley Washburn
  • 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 through strategic acquisitions and the optimization of its extensive network of dealerships and collision centers. Overseeing more than 260 automotive dealerships and 320 franchises across 17 U.S. states and the United Kingdom, Kenningham ensures alignment with the company's mission to provide exceptional automotive retail experiences. This leadership role involves driving revenue growth, enhancing operational efficiency, and maintaining Group 1 Automotive's position as a Fortune 250 company. Daryl Kenningham's vision propels the company's commitment to innovation, including the development of digital retailing platforms like AcceleRide, to meet evolving customer demands and secure long-term market leadership.
    Daryl Kenningham

    Allen Grimes - Regional Chief Financial Officer

    Allen Grimes, the Regional Chief Financial Officer at Group 1 Automotive, manages financial operations and strategic fiscal planning across designated regions. Grimes oversees budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation to support dealership performance and regional growth initiatives. This role involves close collaboration with dealership management to ensure profitability and adherence to financial policies. Allen Grimes's expertise is critical in navigating the complex financial landscape of the automotive retail sector, supporting Group 1 Automotive's extensive operations. The financial oversight provided by Grimes contributes directly to the company's ability to execute strategic acquisitions and maintain robust financial health across its diverse portfolio of brands and services.

    Daniel McHenry - Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Daniel McHenry, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Group 1 Automotive, directs the comprehensive financial strategy and management for the global enterprise. McHenry oversees all aspects of financial planning, capital allocation, investor relations, and risk management, ensuring the fiscal health and sustainable growth of the organization. This critical position involves managing the financial performance of over 260 dealerships and 40 collision centers across the United States and the United Kingdom. Daniel McHenry's leadership ensures compliance with financial regulations and drives initiatives to optimize profitability and shareholder value. The financial acumen provided by McHenry is fundamental to Group 1 Automotive's ability to fund strategic acquisitions, invest in digital platforms like AcceleRide, and maintain its status as a leading Fortune 250 automotive retailer.
    Daniel McHenry

    Charles Winton - President

    Charles Winton, the President at Group 1 Automotive, holds significant responsibility for overseeing operational performance and strategic development within designated regions or business units. Winton drives the implementation of company-wide initiatives, focusing on enhancing dealership operations, customer satisfaction, and profitability. This executive role involves managing key relationships with automotive manufacturers and ensuring adherence to Group 1 Automotive's high standards of service and sales excellence. Charles Winton's leadership contributes directly to the effective management of the company's vast network of franchises and dealerships. The operational guidance provided by Winton is crucial for maintaining Group 1 Automotive's competitive position and driving consistent performance across its diverse market presence.

    Sharon Saunders - President

    Sharon Saunders, the President at Group 1 Automotive, directs strategic operations and growth initiatives within specific market segments or geographic areas. Saunders focuses on optimizing dealership performance, expanding market reach, and ensuring the delivery of superior customer experiences across all brands represented. This executive position is key to driving revenue generation and operational efficiency within the assigned business units. Sharon Saunders's leadership ensures that dealership teams are aligned with corporate objectives and equipped to meet the evolving demands of the automotive retail landscape. The strategic oversight provided by Saunders is instrumental in Group 1 Automotive's continued expansion and its commitment to excellence in vehicle sales and service.

    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 essential administrative and operational support to the Chief People Officer. Ballard manages complex scheduling, coordinates executive communications, and facilitates the smooth functioning of the human resources department. This role is integral to ensuring efficient workflow and supporting strategic HR initiatives across the company's extensive workforce. Rachel Ballard's organizational skills and proactive approach are vital in managing the day-to-day operations that underpin the human resources function. The support provided by Ballard enables the Chief People Officer to focus on talent management, employee development, and fostering a positive corporate culture throughout Group 1 Automotive's global operations.

    James Druzbik - Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    James Druzbik, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Group 1 Automotive, architects and executes the company's technology strategy, driving digital transformation across its vast retail network. Druzbik oversees all information technology infrastructure, cybersecurity measures, and the development of innovative digital solutions, including the AcceleRide platform. This leadership role ensures that technology supports operational efficiency, enhances customer engagement, and provides a competitive edge in the automotive retail market. James Druzbik's strategic direction is crucial for integrating new technologies and managing the IT systems that support over 20,000 employees globally. The technological advancements spearheaded by Druzbik are fundamental to Group 1 Automotive's omni-channel sales approach and its ongoing expansion in key markets.
    James Druzbik

    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 to drive customer acquisition and retention across the company's extensive portfolio. Washburn oversees the development and execution of integrated marketing campaigns, digital advertising, and brand positioning for numerous automotive brands offered by Group 1. This role is pivotal in shaping the company's market presence and communicating its value proposition to consumers in the United States and the United Kingdom. Shelley Washburn's leadership ensures that marketing efforts align with sales objectives and support the growth of both new and used vehicle sales, as well as service contracts and parts. The strategic marketing insights provided by Washburn are essential for enhancing brand loyalty and expanding market share for Group 1 Automotive.

    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, focusing on talent acquisition, development, and employee engagement across the global organization. McDuffie oversees initiatives designed to foster a positive and productive work environment, ensuring that Group 1 Automotive attracts and retains top talent within the automotive retail sector. This role is critical in supporting the company's growth objectives by building a strong, capable workforce. Melkeya McDuffie's leadership ensures that HR policies and practices align with the company's mission and values, supporting over 20,000 employees. The strategic human capital management directed by McDuffie is fundamental to Group 1 Automotive's operational success and its commitment to its people.
    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 Allen Grimes (Regional Chief Financial Officer) and Daniel McHenry (Senior Vice President & 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), Allen Grimes (Regional Chief Financial Officer), Daniel McHenry (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Group 1 Automotive have?
    Group 1 Automotive has 9 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, Regional Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, President, President.