Christian Brothers Automotive, the #1 rated aftermarket car repair company for customer satisfaction by J.D. Power in 2021, has announced the retirement of founder and CEO, Mark Carr, and the appointment of his son and longtime company executive, Donnie Carr, to the role. Mark leaves the company’s operations after a strategic transitional phase, where he worked closely with Donnie to continue the brand’s tenured success and growth.
For nearly 40 years under Mark Carr’s leadership, Christian Brothers Automotive has expanded from a single location in Houston to more than 240 locations across 30 states, never closing a store. Donnie has served the company in leadership roles for more than a decade, most recently as President, which he will continue to serve as in addition to CEO. In more recent years, Donnie and Mark have worked together to co-lead the company, setting revenue and profitability records and expanding to new geographic markets across the United States.
“Donnie brings the leadership qualities that Christian Brothers Automotive needs as it enters its next phase in business. He is a visionary who sets compelling goals that are quickly embraced by the home office team and franchisees, and he does so with humility and intense personal accountability,” said Mark, who started the company in 1982. “After witnessing Donnie launch major profit-focused initiatives as he took on new leadership roles over the past 14 years, I have no doubt that his innovative mindset will steer CBA to new heights.”
Today’s announcement comes as the company celebrates two and a half decades of franchising and nears its 40th anniversary in 2022. Acknowledging that it has taken immeasurable employee contributions over the years to reach where the company is today, Christian Brothers Automotive also announced the launch of an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), which collectively gives employees the chance to take ownership of a substantial portion of the company.
“As we continue to expand our footprint and grow in profitability, I’m so thankful for the unrelenting effort of our team, many of whom have been with the company for years. Their loyalty and commitment to CBA’s values are a true source of pride for me and the entire organization,” said Donnie. “It’s because of their dedication that we’ve launched the ESOP. It’s a way of showing our thanks and allegiance to them. Plus, it’s an incredible legacy for my father, whose generosity and passion inspire me every day.”
