Asbury Automotive Group has promoted Dan Clara from within to succeed David Hult, who steps down as president and CEO and becomes executive chairman.

The changes are expected to take effect following Asbury’s 2026 annual shareholders meeting, on a date in May 2026 to be announced. In addition to his board appointment as president and CEO taking effect, shareholders separately will also be asked to elect Clara to the board of directors at that time.

“I am deeply grateful to our Board of Directors for trusting me to lead Asbury,” said Clara, 45, in a company announcement.

Clara joined Asbury in July 2002, working his way up through the ranks from a position as a client advisor in a Management in Training program at a dealership. He’s been chief operating officer since Feb. 17, 2025. Before that, he was senior vice president of operations for five years.

Under Asbury’s succession plan, which was announced Dec. 8, Hult, 60, stays on as executive chairman. His amended employment agreement runs through Dec. 31, 2027. Unless either party gives 90 days’ notice, it automatically renews for an additional year at that time, according to the company announcement.

“After careful consideration, the Board and I are confident that now is the right time to launch this succession plan and transition Asbury to its next generation of leadership,” Hult said in the company announcement. “Dan is a proven leader and operator.”

As of Sept. 30, 2025, Atlanta-based Asbury operated 175 new vehicle dealerships, consisting of 230 franchises and representing 36 domestic and foreign vehicle brands.