GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo. — A new era has begun at Leeds West Groups (LWG).
Derek Wessels, formerly LWG's chief operating officer and president of automotive, has been named CEO of the 14-year-old company, succeeding Judd Shader, the company's founder and now executive chairman.
In addition, Joshua Weinreich, chairman of the board, is a board member.
The moves were effective Jan. 1.
In his new role, Wessels will oversee the daily operations of the company. He has more than 20 years of automotive retail management experience, including the last three years when he worked closely with Shader.
Meanwhile, Shader will focus on the growth and expansion of the company globally across all of its investment platforms.
Wessels formerly worked at Bridgestone Retail Operations, where he held senior level management positions with Firestone Complete Auto Care, according to LWG.
He thanked Shader for showing confidence in his ability to operate the dealership.
"Together, we've worked to build a powerhouse," he said. "I'm looking forward to drawing on this talented team assembled to implement our strategic initiatives that will take LWG to its next level of growth. I'm fully committed to providing our team with the highest level of support possible."
Since founding the firm in 2009, Shader has helped it grow to 123 retail locations in 18 states, with more than 1,000 employees. LWG operates Big O Tires, Midas and SpeeDee Oil franchises.
Shader said he's looking forward to focusing on strategic decisions " to ensure (LWG) remains the vibrant, successful company it is today on a strong growth trajectory across all of our platforms. I am confident in Derek's leadership as CEO in running the day to day operations of the company. I know he will give world class support to the team to succeed at the highest level while fostering and building on the culture we have relentlessly put in place since his arrival to the platform."
Weinreich has been chairman since LWG's board was founded in 2017. LWG said that as a board member, he will work on growth strategies for the company along Shader and other board members.
"LWG is at an exciting point, and this leadership transition is a natural progression of a well-run, high-growth organization," Weinreich said. "... I look forward to supporting Derek and Judd while continuing to serve as a board member."
