DeBoer succeeds Dick Heimann, who is now president of corporate affairs in charge of manufacturer relations, legal affairs and special projects.

DeBoer was previously executive vice president of the company and was senior vice president of mergers, acquisition and operations from 1996 to 2002. Prior to 1996, DeBoer worked in various capacities at Lithia, including general manager of the Medford Honda Isuzu Suzuki Pontiac Volkswagen dealership, finance manager, used vehicle manager and general sales manager. He joined the company in 1989. DeBoer graduated summa cum laude from Southern Oregon University in 1988 earning a bachelor’s in business. He is also a graduate of the National Automobile Dealers Association Dealer Academy in Washington, D.C.

Heimann is a member of Lithia board and has served as chief operating officer and director of the company since 1970. He was appointed president and COO in 1997. Prior to joining Lithia, he was a district manager for Chrysler Corp. from 1967 to 1970. Heimann is a graduate of the University of Colorado with degrees in biology and languages.

"Dick Heimann and I have been together since 1970, and we have taken this company a long way over the past 35 years," said Lithia Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Sid DeBoer, in a prepared statement. "Dick's oversight with Lithia's corporate affairs and his continued guidance and growth of Lithia's leaders will be invaluable to our future.

"Bryan DeBoer's balance of experience in auto-retailing will serve him well in the role of president and COO. He comes to the position with an in-depth and well-rounded understanding of the company's operations, acquisitions, information technology, human resources and accounting functions."