The AutoSource group of branded title vehicle dealerships announced its new chief executive officer late last week.

The company’s board of directors named former Santander Consumer, QCSA Direct and ADESA Impact executive Bradley Walsh to the CEO post, a move that was effective Oct. 15.

“It has been a tremendous honor to serve as founder and CEO of AutoSource. I am incredibly proud of everything our team has accomplished in the past 13 years,” AutoSource founder Luke Kjar said in a news release. “We have made substantial progress toward our company’s top initiatives.

“Since we started AutoSource, our focus on our most valuable assets, our employees and our customers, has allowed us to grow into an industry leader in the branded title space,” Kjar said. “I am very proud of what we have built, am excited about our future and look to Brad to help us continue on our successful path.”

Kjar will remain on AutoSource’s board and work with the company on strategic initiatives and market development.

AutoSource chairman Rob Wagman said: “Brad has been part of this industry for many years, and we are delighted to have him join the team. His experience within the automotive space between financing, salvage and dealer operations will help AutoSource exceed the goals we have set forth. I look forward to working closely with Brad while he helps set the direction of the company.”

As for Walsh, he was previously Santander Consumer’s senior vice president of asset remarketing. His experience also includes time as executive vice president and chief marketing officer for QCSA Direct, VP of business development at Cross Country Automotive Services and ADESA Impact’s VP of sales and marketing.

“I first want to thank Luke and the board for their confidence in me to manage this company. What Luke and the team have created is amazing, and their preparation for future success is incredible,” Walsh said.

“I am very fortunate to lead such a talented team. The market for specialty and branded title vehicles is growing exponentially, and we are fortunate to lead the way,” he said. “Our model impacts many markets and partnerships across the United States. Because of this, I am confident we will see our dealerships expand outside of our current footprint and provide new opportunities for our customers nationally.”

AutoSource began with one dealership in Woods Cross, Utah. Since its 2005 launch, the company has expanded to include eight locations throughout Utah, Idaho, Colorado and Nevada.