CHARLOTTE, N.C. –

Sonic Automotive said Wednesday it has named an executive vice president and chief financial officer.

Tapped for the position is Heath Byrd, formerly the  company’s chief information officer.

Byrd joined Sonic in November of 2007 as CIO and “has been a driving force in the implementation of the company's many technology innovations,” the company said.

Byrd stated, "I am looking forward to a smooth transition that continues our commitment to growing our base business, acquiring our real estate and strengthening our balance sheet.”

And this isn’t his first gig as CFO.

Before joining the dealer group, Byrd held several positions at HR America including president, chief operating officer and CFO.

Prior to his tenure at HR America, Byrd was a manager at Ernst & Young where he consulted in financial strategy and mergers and acquisitions. 

Scott Smith, Sonic’s  founder, president and chief strategic officer stated, "We are proud of Heath.  He is well prepared for the role.  Our ability to promote from within for this critical position is a testament to our organization's commitment to associate development and providing a career path to develop and retain top talent."

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