This dealer news roundup begins with AutoNation appointing a top technology executive whose background includes time with companies such as Tesla, Avis Budget Group, and Google.

Effective Thursday, Ravi Simhambhatla became the chief technology and AI officer for AutoNation to lead the dealer group’s technology, data science, and artificial intelligence agenda.

“Over decades, we have built a portfolio of brands, physical infrastructure, and scale that have delivered consistently strong returns for our shareholders, and that would be nearly impossible to replicate today,” AutoNation chief executive officer Mike Manley said in a news release. “Technology, data science, and the intelligent use of AI give us the opportunity to get significantly more from that foundation: to raise the returns on our capital and extend our reach well beyond traditional geographic boundaries.

“That’s why I’m delighted to welcome Ravi. From building an airline’s systems from scratch to leading global technology at Avis Budget Group, he has turned technology into a competitive advantage at both start-up speed and global scale. His appointment is one of several steps we’re taking to accelerate the growth of our business,” Manley went on to say.

Simhambhatla brings more than 30 years of experience leading enterprise technology and digital transformation, with deep expertise in data, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, product innovation, and customer experience.

Most recently, as executive vice president and chief digital and innovation officer at Avis Budget Group, Simhambhatla led global technology, product, data, engineering, infrastructure, and cybersecurity while advancing the company’s adoption of AI and connected-fleet technology.

Simhambhatla previously served as a managing director at Google Cloud, advising major enterprises on cloud, data, and AI transformation, and held senior technology leadership roles at United Airlines, overseeing commercial systems, digital commerce, loyalty, and revenue management.

Earlier in his career, Simhambhatla served as chief technology officer at Aer Lingus, vice president of information technology at Tesla, and chief information officer at Virgin America, where he helped build the airline’s foundational digital and e-commerce platforms.

“I am honored to join AutoNation at an important point in the evolution of automotive retail,” Simhambhatla said. “With its tremendous scale, iconic brand, and talented associates, AutoNation has a powerful platform for innovation.

“I look forward to working with the team to apply technology and AI in practical ways, making the customer journey easier, equipping associates with better tools and insights, and supporting the company’s next phase of growth,” he added.

Illinois Genesis store changes hands

In other dealer news developing this week, Performance Brokerage Services announced the sale of Genesis of Glenview, Ill., to Joe Ghaben.

Founded in 2004, Ghaben Auto Group is an Illinois-based automotive group led by Joe Ghaben, who for more than two decades has built a presence throughout the Chicago area. The group operates Volkswagen of Oak Lawn and Volkswagen of Orland Park, as well as Ultimo Motors, a luxury pre-owned dealership with locations in Northbrook and Westmont.

According to a news release, Genesis of Glenview will continue to operate under the same name and will be relocated to 2929 Patriot Blvd. in Glenview.

“We’re excited to open a brand-new Genesis facility in Glenview and look forward to a very bright future for the brand. I appreciated working with Performance Brokerage Services and would gladly work with their team again.” Ghaben said in the news release.

Over the last five years, Performance Brokerage Services has advised on the sale of nearly 450 dealerships

Paul Kechnie and Matt Willis, the Texas and Midwest partners of Performance Brokerage Services, were the exclusive sell-side advisors for this transaction.

“Working with Performance Brokerage Services on the acquisition of Genesis of Glenview was a great experience,” Ghaben said. “Their team was professional, responsive, and solutions-oriented throughout the transaction, working through the details to help get the deal across the finish line.”