RALEIGH, NC — CARQUEST Corp. has appointed Robert Blair to the position of executive vice president of product management and president of CARQUEST Corp. effective Nov. 7.
Blair replaces Art Lottes, III who has announced his retirement effective Jan. 2, 2006, after 26 years as a member of the CARQUEST Team. The program distribution group has also promoted Ray Birden to senior vice president of marketing, filling the position being vacated by Blair.
“We are fortunate to have exceptional leaders in Robert and Ray. These appointments recognize their significant contribution to CARQUEST. We are confident that these leaders, combined with our existing Product Management and Marketing Teams will continue CARQUEST’s tradition of excellence”, according to Temple Sloan, III, president/CEO of General Parts, Inc. and Neil Stockel, president of BPW and chairman of CARQUEST Corp.
“Importantly, we thank Art Lottes for the 26 years of tireless and dedicated service and leadership to both CARQUEST and the automotive aftermarket. His passion for CARQUEST and the well being of our industry has made a significant difference. Art has served as CARQUEST Corp. chairman, president and a board member”.
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