Leadership Transition at AutoZone: New Faces on Board
Changes in Leadership at AutoZone
AutoZone today announced a significant shift in its organizational structure, highlighting key promotions and retirements within the company's leadership team. As part of this transition, Bill Hackney, Executive Vice President of Merchandising, Marketing, and Supply Chain, and Rick Smith, Senior Vice President of Human Resources, will retire in the coming months.
A Tribute to Long-Serving Executives
During his remarkable 40-year career with AutoZone, Bill Hackney has been instrumental in shaping the company’s approach to merchandising. His commitment to ensuring the best products at competitive prices has made AutoZone a leader in the automotive industry. Bill’s relentless drive for innovation and his advocacy for the company's vision have left a lasting impact on the organization.
Rick Smith, equally respected for his dedication throughout his four decades at AutoZone, has led various teams, contributing significantly to the company’s success. His passion for AutoZone’s culture and values has inspired many employees and fostered a strong sense of community within the organization.
New Leadership Appointments
Following the retirements, AutoZone is pleased to announce the promotion of Eric Gould, who has been a member of the AutoZone family for 33 years. As the current Senior Vice President of Supply Chain, Eric will take over as Executive Vice President of Merchandising, Marketing, and Supply Chain, stepping into the role previously held by Hackney.
Additionally, Denise McCullough, who has contributed 25 years to AutoZone and currently serves as Vice President of Transportation, will advance to Senior Vice President of Supply Chain.
Welcoming Eric Leef
Joining AutoZone is Eric Leef, who will fill the role of Senior Vice President of Human Resources, succeeding Rick Smith. Eric comes with over 20 years of HR leadership experience from notable companies including Hertz and Atria Senior Living. His robust background in managing global HR organizations will bring valuable insights to AutoZone.
The Future of AutoZone
Phil Daniele, President and Chief Executive Officer of AutoZone, expressed gratitude to Hackney and Smith for their years of service and stress the importance of their roles in paving the way for future successes. He stated, “While we will miss them both, they have built teams and organizations that are well-prepared to move AutoZone forward.” Daniele underscored the excitement surrounding the promotions of both Eric Gould and Denise McCullough as well as the addition of Eric Leef to the executive team.
AutoZone continues to thrive with a presence of 6,537 locations throughout the United States, alongside expansion efforts in Mexico and Brazil. The company remains dedicated to providing a wide range of automotive replacement parts and accessories, reinforcing its status as a top retailer in the Americas.
Continuing Commitment to Excellence
As AutoZone transitions in leadership, the focus remains on enhancing customer experiences and maintaining high-quality service. AutoZone's commercial sales program and its commitment to swift delivery underline the company’s dedication to meeting the needs of local repair shops and customers alike.
About AutoZone
As a leading retailer in the automotive market, AutoZone specializes in providing a comprehensive range of automotive parts and services. From new and remanufactured hard parts to essential maintenance items and accessories, each store is equipped to cater to a diverse consumer base, reinforcing AutoZone’s mission to deliver unmatched value and quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the organizational changes at AutoZone?
The changes are part of a strategic grooming of leadership roles in anticipation of the retirements of two long-serving executives.
Who are the newly appointed executives at AutoZone?
Eric Gould and Denise McCullough have been promoted, while Eric Leef has joined as Senior Vice President of Human Resources.
How long have the retiring executives been with AutoZone?
Bill Hackney and Rick Smith have both served the company for four decades.
What is AutoZone's commitment moving forward?
AutoZone remains focused on providing quality products and enhancing customer relationships, ensuring continued growth and excellence in the automotive aftermarket.
What is AutoZone's store count as of 2025?
As of May 10, 2025, AutoZone operates 6,537 stores in the U.S., with additional locations in Mexico and Brazil, totaling 7,516 stores across the Americas.
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