LAPIS Automotive, which operates Porsche, Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Land Rover, and Honda dealerships in Arizona and California, has named a new chief operating officer.

Hired for the COO role is Mark Venti, who spent 28 years with Hennessy Automobile Companies in Atlanta.

“I have known Mark for 16 years and have always admired his work ethic and commitment to customers, manufacturers, and the teams he helped build over a multi-decade career. His reputation for operational excellence is recognized at the highest levels of our industry,” LAPIS founder and CEO Todd Blue said in a news release.

“Mark’s skill set is exactly what LAPIS needs to take our business to the next level. I am confident Mark will be instrumental as we continue to grow, strengthen our operations, invest in the guest experience, and shape the future of our organization,” Blue said.

“A culture built on accountability, focus, and delivering an exceptional ownership journey is what defines LAPIS. I am honored to welcome Mark to the LAPIS family.”

Venti and Blue have known each other for more than 15 years, going back to a 20 Group.

In the release, Venti added, “I’m grateful to join LAPIS at such an exciting time. This opportunity is especially meaningful because it allows me to work alongside Todd Blue. I first met Todd in 2010 through a Porsche 20 Group. Throughout our years as industry colleagues, we developed a relationship built on mutual respect, trust, and transparency, along with a shared vision for what truly defines luxury in automotive retail.

“Today, I am energized to join LAPIS and look forward to partnering with an exceptional team to build on the company’s strong foundation and help drive its next chapter of growth. I am deeply grateful for the 28 years I spent in Atlanta. The experiences, opportunities, and people who helped shape me personally and professionally will remain with me as I bring the same passion, discipline, and commitment to LAPIS. I thank Todd for his trust and confidence as we build something truly special together.”

Genesis stamp added to Passport

It’s a new beginning for Passport Auto Group, which has opened its first Genesis franchise.

The group announced that Genesis of Suitland has officially opened on the Passport Auto campus in Maryland, joining Passport BMW, Passport Toyota, Passport Mazda and Passport Nissan.

The sales and service operations previously at Genesis of Bowie will transition to this store.

“We’re excited to welcome Genesis owners and shoppers to the Passport Auto Group family,” Passport Auto Group president Everett Hellmuth said in a news release. “Genesis has quickly become one of the most respected luxury automotive brands, and we’re honored to represent it.

“Our team looks forward to providing the exceptional ownership experience that Genesis customers expect while delivering the personalized service Passport has been known for since 1991.”