ATD ACADEMY GRADUATE BRINGS MORE THAN 15 YEARS OF DEALERSHIP MANAGEMENT AND INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE TO DIRECTOR POST

McLEAN, Va. (Sept. 5, 2013) The National Automobile Dealers Association has named Allen Phibbs as director of the NADA/American Truck Dealers Academy. He began his new duties on Aug. 30.

Phibbs, formerly with KEA Advisors, a dealership management advisory firm, brings more than 15 years of auto industry experience to the NADA/ATD Academy leadership post. Phibbs and Keith Ely, KEA managing partner, have been guest instructors for the ATD Academy since 1996. 

A 2004 graduate of the ATD Academy while working as the general manager at Truck Enterprises in Richmond, Va., Phibbs has worked with dealerships, manufacturers and associations to help them drive growth and performance. 

"The Academy has earned such an outstanding reputation in our industry, and I'm excited about the opportunity to help build on that foundation and keep the momentum moving forward," Phibbs said. "Most importantly, we always want to stay focused on doing everything we can to help the students and their dealerships succeed." 

Phibbs was selected from a top-tier list of highly qualified candidates. He replaces James Schoonover, who was promoted to senior director of dealership operations for NADA.

"Not only is Allen among the most well-respected dealership management advisors in our industry, he also carries a wealth of knowledge about the Academy and its mission," said John Lyboldt, NADA vice president of dealership operations.

"We know from working closely with him that his leadership skills, industry expertise and teaching abilities are extraordinary," Lyboldt added. "He will be a tremendous asset to our programs, and that will benefit everyone who participates."

Noting Phibbs's long experience with the ATD Academy, Schoonover said that the heavy-duty truck program stands to benefit directly from his leadership.

"Allen looks forward to strengthening the mutually beneficial relationship with KEA Advisors," said Schoonover.  "With Allen as director, the truck program is guaranteed further growth and commitment to excellence."

NADA/ATD Academy programs feature the latest education and training on industry trends and developments, while also being deeply rooted in the fundamentals needed to operate a successful and profitable business. Academy instructors are among the "who's who" in the industry and recognized for their expertise.

To learn more about Academy programs, email academy@nada.org or call 800.557.6232.