AutoNation names Liebert CEO and president

Carl Liebert is currently chief operating officer and executive vice president of USAA.
Carl Liebert is currently chief operating officer and executive vice president of USAA. | Contributed photo

AutoNation Inc. has named Carl Liebert CEO and president and appointed him to the Board of Directors. Both posts are effective March 11.

"AutoNation is the retail automotive industry leader," Mike Jackson, AutoNation's outgoing Chairman, CEO and president said. "The company has a coast to coast brand, a comprehensive Brand Extension strategy, and a transformational digital consumer car buying experience. Carl is a global leader who brings to AutoNation multi-faceted expertise in leading customer-centric transformations, omnichannel digital capabilities, and supply chain logistics."

Jackson will assume the role of executive chairman of the board.

Liebert is currently chief operating officer and executive vice president of USAA. The former U.S. Navy officer also served as the executive vice president of The Home Depot.

"AutoNation has a clear strategy that sets it apart in the auto retail sector and diversifies the typical retail business model," Liebert said. "The company's Brand Extension strategy has given it an edge in what is a cyclical business. The opportunities that lie ahead for AutoNation are massive, and the ability to lead this next chapter is deeply humbling and exciting."