Janet Barnard, president of Cox Automotive Inventory Solutions, received the 2016 Leadership Character Award in the CEO/President/Managing Partner — Large Company category.

The company said Barnard was recognized for her integrity; her commitment to treating clients, suppliers, co-workers and others with respect; and for maintaining a culture in which everyone takes responsibility for achieving results while upholding the organization’s core values.

“We are proud Janet has been recognized as a bold leader guided by foundational values and a belief that every decision should be grounded in service to others,” said Rock Anderson, senior vice president and chief human resources officer for Cox Automotive. “Her approach has helped this company thrive, well served our clients and supported the communities where our team members live and work.” Anderson nominated her for the award.

Barnard has helped to transform the 72-year-old wholesale auction operation into a dynamic organization that’s re-imagining the used car marketplace.

She’s worked to redefine business scope and structure, adapt new technologies and refine processes, tools and systems to to enhance client engagement and employee satisfaction. Barnard had to secure a multimillion dollar investment, overcome skepticism about an initiative that had been attempted previously without success, and manage expectations associated with a multi-year timeline.

“I’m deeply touched by this award, especially as it reflects values and beliefs that drive me every day as a business leader, community member and person,” said Barnard.

Barnard was honored during the 12th annual award event, a luncheon held Oct. 4 at the Georgia Aquarium hosted by Turknett Leadership Group and Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership. Cox Automotive was one of the event’s silver sponsors.