The Standards for Technology in Automotive Retail (STAR) on Tuesday announced the hiring of an executive director; someone who has close knowledge of the automotive IT standards organization.

Leveraging a relationship with STAR that dates to its formative days, where he worked alongside staff members to develop STAR’s initial standards for automotive, the organization’s executive director now is Steve Zadoorian, who spent 25 years at Auto/Mate in various roles, including chief information officer and chief customer officer.

STAR said Zadoorian’s unique historical knowledge and passion for automotive standards made him a clear front-runner to be its executive director.

Reporting to STAR’s 2025 board of directors and officers, Zadoorian will lead the day-to-day operations of STAR, oversee the development and updates of its standards, provide visionary leadership, and drive stakeholder engagement from the organization’s members.

“I am beyond excited to announce Steve as STAR’s new executive director,” said JP Garvey, chairman of STAR and dealer principal of Garvey Automotive Group. “He has already brought a tremendous depth of experience, precision mindset, and customer-focused orientation to our organization.

“STAR is engaging with members like never before, and Steve is at the helm of that effort. Organizations have noticed the difference, and we’ve seen participation in STAR’s efforts escalate accordingly. It’s a great time to be part of STAR,” Garvey said.

Most recently, Zadoorian’s work has focused on providing companies with strategic direction, product development, and operational process enhancement through SMZ Consulting.

“I am honored to step into the role of Executive Director at STAR,” Zadoorian said. “The automotive industry is at a pivotal point: one where data interoperability, security, and collaboration across OEMs and dealers are essential to driving meaningful progress. STAR has a long-standing reputation for establishing open, non-proprietary standards that support this mission—and I believe our role will only grow more critical in the years ahead.

“My vision for STAR is to serve as a catalyst for digital transformation across the automotive ecosystem, making it easier for companies to connect, innovate, and deliver exceptional customer experiences through standardized data and seamless integration,” he continued.

“On a personal note, I’ve worked alongside many STAR members over the years and have deep respect for the organization’s commitment to the industry. I’m excited to build on that foundation, listen closely, and help chart the path forward — together,” Zadoorian said.