Noting George Hines’ leadership in activating the Lithia store network with digital services to reach 80% of consumers nationwide, Lithia Motors has promoted Hines to senior vice president, chief innovation and technology officer.

Lithia Motors president and chief executive officer Bryan DeBoer said in a news release that the company’s internal investments and strategic partnerships are expanding its “convenient and affordable offerings” for customers.

DeBoer also said Lithia’s digital investment in improving the experience of customers helps the company boost market share and owner loyalty. That, DeBoer said, “drives increased profitability in our stores.”

“George has accelerated our technology development efforts, and we're excited to recognize his continued leadership and have him as an integral part of our strategic leadership team,” DeBoer said.

Lithia Motors’ Baierl Automotive multi-dealership platform in Pittsburgh, along with its growing partnership with Shift Technologies in San Francisco, are “incubators” for its evolving digital strategies, the company said.

"Whether people prefer to buy, sell or schedule service from home or whether they prefer the human connection of our store teams, these technologies provide consumers with transparent and empowered shopping experiences," DeBoer said.