LKQ Corporation has announced new leadership appointments following the previously revealed transition plan involving Justin Jude, the company’s current senior vice president and president of its Wholesale – North America segment. Jude will take over as executive vice president and COO on January 1, 2024, before succeeding Dominick Zarcone as president and CEO on July 1, 2024.
John Meyne, presently the east division vice president of LKQ’s Wholesale – North America segment, will step into the role of senior vice president of LKQ and president of Wholesale – North America, effective Jan. 1. Jude commented on Meyne’s appointment, stating, “John has been instrumental in the success of our Wholesale – North American business growth and profit transformation. He embodies the LKQ culture and will do exceptionally well leading our Wholesale – North America team.”
Furthermore, the company’s board of directors has appointed Andy Hamilton, the current CEO of LKQ’s Euro Car Parts business in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland, as senior vice president of LKQ and president and managing director of LKQ Europe, effective January 1, 2024. Zarcone remarked on Hamilton’s experience, noting, “Andy’s extensive experience, including several years as our pan-European chief commercial officer and then as CEO of our largest and most profitable European operation, makes him a natural selection to lead our European team.”
Hamilton will be replacing Varun Laroyia, executive vice president of LKQ and CEO and managing director of LKQ Europe. Laroyia has announced his resignation effective Dec. 31. but will continue to serve as a special advisor to Hamilton in 2024 to facilitate a smooth transition. Zarcone acknowledged Laroyia’s significant contributions, saying, “Varun has been a trusted partner and integral to LKQ’s success during the past six years, and I would like to thank him for his dedication to the Company, his significant contributions, and his assistance with the transition.”
Meyne has been with LKQ since 2009, holding various operational leadership roles. He began his career in the industry with Keystone Automotive Industries in 1987 and founded his own aftermarket collision parts company in 2006, which LKQ acquired in 2009.
Hamilton joined LKQ Euro Car Parts in 2010, a year before its acquisition by LKQ. He has held several executive roles at LKQ Euro Car Parts, including COO and, since 2019, CEO. Hamilton’s tenure at LKQ Europe includes responsibilities in digital strategy, revenue optimization and category and product management.
