Asbury Automotive Group Strengthens Board with Strategic Appointment
On February 4, 2026, Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. (NYSE: ABG), a leading player in the U.S. automotive retail and service industry, announced a significant addition to its Board of Directors. Effective March 1, 2026, Christopher DiSantis will join the Board and take on vital roles in both the Audit Committee and the Compensation & Human Resources Committee. This move highlights Asbury's commitment to enhancing its governance and strategic oversight.
1. A New Era of Leadership
With the appointment of DiSantis, Asbury’s Board will consist of eleven members, with ten serving as independent directors. This alignment underscores the company's focus on bringing diverse and experienced perspectives to its leadership. The announcement also comes with the news that long-standing Board member Philip Maritz will not seek re-election, marking the conclusion of an era as he steps down at the company’s 2026 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chris to the Board and we are fortunate to have him,” said Tom Reddin, Board Chair. “Chris has demonstrated a consistent track record of creating value through operational excellence and transformative growth strategies.” Reddin emphasized that DiSantis’s experience in various industries, including automotive parts supply, will be instrumental in guiding Asbury’s future planning and operations.
2. DiSantis’s Impressive Background
Christopher DiSantis brings a wealth of experience to Asbury. Currently a Partner at American Securities, a private equity firm, he has been integral in driving value creation and strategic implementation for portfolio companies since joining in 2019. His previous roles include serving as CEO of Verso Corporation, H-D Advanced Manufacturing, and Latrobe Specialty Metals, where he focused on scaling businesses and enhancing operational performance.
David Hult, Asbury’s President and CEO, stated, “Chris brings an added dimension. His value-creation experience through scaling, transformation, and performance improvement will make us a stronger organization.” DiSantis’s multifaceted background positions him well to contribute to Asbury's ambitious growth strategies.
3. Farewell to a Longtime Leader
Philip Maritz’s departure is notable, given his long-standing service since Asbury’s IPO in 2002. He has held various leadership roles, including Chair of the Audit Committee and the Risk Management Committee. His contributions have been pivotal in navigating the company through key transitions, helping Asbury grow into a Fortune 500 entity with over $18 billion in revenue.
“Philip has been instrumental in helping to guide Asbury from its Initial Public Offering to becoming a recognized leader in the automotive retail space,” noted Hult. “His contributions are a testament to his deep experience and sound judgment.” Maritz expressed pride in his tenure on the Board and confidence in the company’s future, wishing his colleagues continued success.
4. Asbury’s Strategic Vision
Asbury Automotive Group, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is committed to a multi-year strategic plan aimed at increasing revenue and profitability through organic growth and innovative technologies. The company operates 171 new vehicle dealerships, providing a comprehensive range of automotive products and services, including vehicle financing and aftermarket products.
Asbury’s dedication to customer service and operational excellence has earned it accolades such as being named one of America’s Fastest Growing Companies in 2024 by the Financial Times and recognized by Newsweek as one of the World’s Most Trustworthy Companies for 2024 and 2025.
With the addition of Christopher DiSantis, Asbury is poised to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation, further solidifying its position as a leader in the automotive industry.
