---
title: 2026 NY Auto Forum Speakers
description: Join industry leaders at the Automotive Forum in New York for insights on automotive trends, digital retailing, and customer experience strategies.
image: https://www.autoforumny.com/hubfs/Events/2026%20Events/Auto%20Forum%202026/Website/Imagery/2ef4af4f-ab94-44eb-a6a6-38bc4dbe24da.png
---
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- [AGENDA](https://www.autoforumny.com/agenda)
- [SPEAKERS](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers)
- [PARTNER](https://www.autoforumny.com/partner)
- [MEDIA](https://www.autoforumny.com/media)
- [FAQ](https://www.autoforumny.com/faq)
- [AGENDA](https://www.autoforumny.com/agenda)
- [SPEAKERS](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers)
- [PARTNER](https://www.autoforumny.com/partner)
- [MEDIA](https://www.autoforumny.com/media)
- [FAQ](https://www.autoforumny.com/faq)
[REGISTER ](https://www.autoforumny.com/register?hsLang=en)
# 
# MARCH 31, 2026
[Save the Date ](https://www.autoforumny.com/hubfs/Events/2026%20Events/Auto%20Summit%202026/J.D.%20Power%20Auto%20Summit%202026.ics?hsLang=en)
## FAQ
###### What is J.D. Power?
J.D. Power is a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services and data and analytics. A pioneer in the use of big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithmic modeling capabilities to understand consumer behavior, J.D. Power has been delivering incisive industry intelligence on customer interactions with brands and products for more than 50 years. The world's leading businesses across major industries rely on J.D. Power to guide their customer-facing strategies.
###### Why should I attend?
For access to the exclusive industry insights and analytics into the state of the industry, EV adoption, digital retail, supply and inventory, and the annual live Franchise Assessment only available onsite to registered attendees.
###### When in Auto Summit 2026?
The conference will be on Tuesday, February 3rd, 2026.
###### Where will Auto Summit be held?
We are heading back to Las Vegas, NV. Additional details will be available later this year.
###### When will registration open?
Early bird registration will become available at the end of summer. Please make sure you are receiving the latest details by [clicking here](https://www.autoforumny.com/j.d.-power-events-stay-informed?hsLang=en).
###### Are there discounted hotel room block rates available?
If you are attending the NADA Show, please book your room via the [NADA Show site](https://www.nada.org/nada-show).
If you are only attending the J.D. Power Auto Summit, please visit one of the nearby hotels too book your room.
###### Will there be a virtual option?
The J.D. Power Auto Summit will not be streamed online. Join us in person for exclusive content, latest data, engaging discussions with industry leaders, and valuable networking. Don't miss this event!
# MEET THE VOICES DRIVING AUTOMOTIVE INNOVATION
The 2026 Automotive Forum brings together the industry’s most influential leaders, visionaries, and disruptors. From OEM executives to technology pioneers and market strategists, these speakers will share insights that shape the future of mobility. Explore the lineup and get ready to be inspired.
[ REGISTER NOW ](https://www.autoforumny.com/register?hsLang=en)
### OEM C-SUITE EXCHANGE SPEAKERS
[Duncan Aldred Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
DUNCAN ALDRED
SVP & President of North America
GM
## DUNCAN ALDRED
SVP & President of North America
GM
Duncan Aldred has been Senior Vice President and President of GM North America. He oversees GM’s entire North American operations, leading sales, service, and marketing across the U.S, Canada, and Mexico. He manages the organization’s diverse automotive and connected-services portfolio, including Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC, Buick, OnStar, ACDelco, GM Genuine Parts, and GM Energy.
Prior to his current role, Duncan was the Vice President of Commercial Growth Strategies and Operations, where he focused on improving both the fleet and retail customer experience at every stage of the journey, including purchasing, ownership, and after-sales.
Ducan held the position of Global Vice President of Buick and GMC. Under his leadership, Buick was strategically repositioned as a premium SUV brand, while GMC underwent transformational growth, driven by the critical full-size truck lineup and the rapid expansion of the Denali and AT4 sub-brands.
Duncan began his career at Vauxhall Motors as a Student Intern and eventually went on to hold several senior leadership roles at Vauxhall Motors and Opel.
Duncan also currently serves as the Chair of Alliance for Automotive Innovation.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Liverpool John Moores University in the United Kingdom.
[Andrew Frick Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
ANDREW FRICK
President, Ford Blue and Model e
Ford Motor Company
## ANDREW FRICK
President, Ford Blue and Model e
Ford Motor Company
Andrew Frick is president of Ford Blue and Ford Model e. He became president of Ford Blue in October 2023 and added responsibility for Model e in February 2025. In this role, he also oversees Lincoln. He reports to Jim Farley, Ford president and CEO.
As President, Ford Blue and Ford Model e, he is responsible for the go-to-market initiatives and sales, revenue and profit growth of each business unit. Frick and his team have primary relationships with Ford’s dealer network and our shared customers, making sure their voices are heard throughout Ford and that customers are receiving best-in-class service and experiences. Within Model e, he and his team are focused on delivering a profitable electric vehicle business, solving for the unique needs and experiences of electric vehicle customers and launching the next generation of electric vehicles.
As the interim head of Ford Pro, Frick and his team are responsible for continuing to build the commercial vehicles organization into a high-growth, high-margin business with deep competitive moats.
Frick has been with Ford since 1995. Previously, he managed Ford Blue’s sales and distribution functions, trucks and SUVs, and operations in Mexico and Canada. Earlier roles included vice president, Sales, for the U.S. and Canada; director of U.S. Sales; and director, Marketing, where he led the implementation of the Ford brand communications and product marketing strategic plan.
During an assignment as manager of Marketing, Sales and Service for Lincoln, he led development and implementation of brand strategy for all Lincoln vehicles and related customer services. He was vital to successfully relaunching Ford’s luxury brand, helping develop and introduce key customer-service initiatives, including Lincoln’s Black Label products and services as well as pickup and delivery, then an industry first.
Prior to Lincoln, Frick was Ford’s regional general manager, Export and Growth, for Asia Pacific, the Caribbean and Central America. In that position, he was responsible for sales, marketing, parts and service; the retail network; and customer satisfaction in nearly 50 countries.
Frick started his Ford career in regional management positions supporting the Ford and Lincoln brands in New York; Orlando, Fla.; the U.S. Southwest; and Boston.
Frick is a graduate of Villanova University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in commerce and finance. He also holds a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Michigan.
[Christian Meunier Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
CHRISTIAN MEUNIER
Chairman
Nissan Americas
## CHRISTIAN MEUNIER
Chairman
Nissan Americas
Christian Meunier is chairman, Nissan Americas, a role he was appointed to in January 2025. As chairperson for Nissan Americas, Meunier leads operations and strategy across all of North and South America as part of the company's global business plan, The Arc.
Meunier brings more than 30 years of experience building successful global automotive brands, leading innovative marketing efforts and driving sales results.
Meunier initially joined Nissan Group in 2002, serving in various global roles with increasing responsibility, including senior vice president of Sales and Marketing and Operations for Nissan North America; chairman of Nissan Canada; president of Nissan Brazil; vice president of Sales for Nissan Europe; and chairman and global president for INFINITI, leading strategy and operations globally.
Meunier was honored as an Automotive News All-Star in 2017 and 2022 and named to the MotorTrend Power List in 2022 and 2023.
He holds a master's degree from École des Hautes Etudes Commerciales du Nord (EDHEC) Business School in France. He is a dual citizen of France and the United States.
Meunier is based at Nissan Americas Headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee.
[Lance Woelfer Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
LANCE WOELFER
Vice President, Automotive Sales
American Honda Motor Company
## LANCE WOELFER
Vice President, Automotive Sales
American Honda Motor Company
Lance Woelfer is the vice president of Automobile Sales within the Auto Business Center at American Honda Motor Co., Inc., (AHM), responsible for leading Honda and Acura auto sales, Sales & Logistics Planning and Sales Strategy.
Woelfer began his career at Honda in 1997 as a Honda sales analyst in Portland, Oregon.
In 1998, he became a district sales manager, supporting Honda dealers in the company’s Northwest Zone.
In 1999, Woelfer joined the Acura Sales Division as district sales manager in the Central Zone, covering Michigan and Ohio and later focusing on the Chicago metro area.
In 2002, he was promoted to assistant manager, Market Representation for the Central Zone, responsible for ensuring that the Acura brand is represented by the strongest and most successful dealer network in every market.
In 2005, Woelfer took on a new role as assistant national manager of Automotive Incentives at AHM headquarters in Torrance, Calif., responsible for establishing strategic sales plans and program improvements for the Honda and Acura brands.
In 2007, he became the Honda assistant zone sales manager for the Southern California region, which includes the Los Angeles and San Diego areas.
In 2008, he returned to the Northwest Zone as the Honda zone sales manager.
In 2009, Woelfer became the Honda zone sales manager for the Mid-Atlantic Zone, responsible for sales, marketing, dealer relations, and distribution operations.
In 2020, he became the Western region manager responsible for Honda and Acura auto sales and service operations in 16 western states.
In October 2022, Woelfer became assistant vice president of Honda National Auto Sales, responsible for leading U.S. sales activities for the Honda automobile brand.
In June 2024, he was promoted to vice president of Auto Sales.
In April 2025, a corporate restructuring positioned the Auto Sales business unit within a new Auto Business Center, established to strengthen automobile business operations.
Woelfer earned a B.S. in Marketing & Advertising Management from Portland State University.
### ALL SPEAKERS
[Brian Abrams Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
BRIAN ABRAMS
VICE PRESIDENT, Product Management
CDK
## BRIAN ABRAMS
VICE PRESIDENT, Product Management
CDK
Brian Abrams is a seasoned automotive product executive with a career dedicated to transforming retail experiences with data, software, and AI. He’s currently the Vice President of AI & Data Product Strategy at CDK Global, where he leads their unified data platform, predictive analytics, and AI capabilities that empower dealers, OEMs, and partners to turn data into profitability. Brian has held leadership roles at Mercedes-Benz USA, Cox Automotive, LivePerson AI, CarMagic, and Hearst Auto, where he focused on building data-driven solutions that connect technology, customer experience, and business growth. With a track record of building innovative product experiences, Brian is helping shape the industry’s next era of connected retail.
Brian resides in Roswell, GA with his wife, 3 kids and a dog.
[Jamie Albertine Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
JAMIE ALBERTINE
Managing Director
The Presidio Group
## JAMIE ALBERTINE
Managing Director
The Presidio Group
In his role as managing director, Jamie focuses on Presidio’s dealership mergers and acquisitions business, working closely with dealers on transactions and portfolio management strategies.
Jamie brings more than 20 years of experience working with dealers and investors on their biggest strategic decisions. He most recently helped lead growth at Group 1 Automotive Inc. by overseeing its corporate development group where he was responsible for mergers and acquisitions, real estate,
manufacturer relations for certain OEMs and procurement activities for the international Fortune 300 automotive retailer. Prior to joining Group 1, he helped shape strategic growth plans at MileOne
Autogroup, one of the nation’s largest private auto retailers. Earlier in his career, he developed a deep understanding of the auto industry as an analyst at Consumer Edge Research and Stifel Nicolaus & Co. Inc.
Jamie graduated from Harvard University with an A.B. in Economics. He lives in Houston, TX with his wife
and three children.
[Liza Borches Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
LIZA BORCHES
President & CEO
**CARTER MYERS AUTOMOTIVE**
## LIZA BORCHES
President & CEO
**CARTER MYERS AUTOMOTIVE**
Liza is President & CEO of Carter Myers Automotive, her family’s business that has been serving Central Virginia’s car needs since 1924. She is the 4th generation of the Myers family and the first woman to run the company. Liza grew up in Charlottesville, graduated from UVA, and has been back in town since she purchased CMA’s Volvo Cars of Charlottesville in 2003. She and her husband, Pete, have two very active children.
[John Bozzella Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
JOHN BOZZELLA
President & CEO
Alliance for Automotive Innovation
## JOHN BOZZELLA
President & CEO
Alliance for Automotive Innovation
John Bozzella, a veteran auto industry executive, is president and CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation (Auto Innovators). From 2014 until the establishment of Auto Innovators in January 2020, he served as president and CEO of the Association of Global Automakers, the trade association whose members included the U.S operations of international automobile and light-duty truck manufacturers that sold products in the United States.
Previously, John served as a Senior Operating Executive for Cerberus Operations and Advisory Company, LLC, where he worked with the firm and its portfolio companies on a range of public policy and economic development matters. He served as Senior Vice President of External Affairs and Public Policy at Chrysler Group in 2009, and Vice President of External Affairs and Public Policy for Chrysler LLC from 2007 to 2009. In this capacity, he mobilized government support to significantly restructure Chrysler.
At Chrysler, John worked closely with the federal government and other automakers on a substantially advanced technology vehicle loan program and on the development of new fuel economy standards. In addition, he worked with state governments to gain funding for restructuring, training, and development.
From 2005 to 2007, John spent two years with DaimlerChrysler Corporation as Vice President of External Affairs and Public Policy for the Americas. John was with Ford Motor Company from 1994 to 2005 in positions in public policy, and government and community relations, and labor relations.
Prior to joining the automotive industry, John served as New York City's director of state legislative affairs under Mayor David N. Dinkins. He began his career in public policy as the Director of Legislative and Political Action for the United Federation of Teachers. John is a graduate of Cornell University.
[John Casesa Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
JOHN CASESA
Head of Autos & Mobility Investment Banking
Guggenheim Partners
## JOHN CASESA
Head of Autos & Mobility Investment Banking
Guggenheim Partners
John Casesa is Senior Managing Director at Guggenheim Partners, a global investment and advisory firm. He was previously Group Vice President, Global Strategy at Ford Motor Company, where he led strategy and business development and reported to the CEO. At Ford he created numerous new businesses including Argo AI, a rapidly-growing developer of an autonomous vehicle software platform built to serve customers industry-wide.
Casesa was one of Wall Street’s leading auto analysts for almost two decades, at Merrill Lynch and at Schroders. His thought-leading research changed the way investors understood many aspects of the auto industry. He authored Car Wars, which remains a benchmark for measuring automaker competitiveness, and Who Makes the Car, which presented a new framework for understanding the supply chain. In 2005, his Energy Security & Climate Change foretold the clean car revolution that is playing out today.
He was ranked as an All-Star eleven times by Institutional Investor magazine and helped write the New York Stock Exchange’s qualifying exam for securities analysts (Series 86).
Prior to Wall Street, he was a member of GM’s Marketing and Product Planning Staff.
Casesa holds a BS from St. John’s University and an MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College.
[Rob Cochran Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
ROB COCHRAN
Chairman, Board of Directors / Chairman & CEO
NADA / #1 Cochran
## ROB COCHRAN
Chairman, Board of Directors / Chairman & CEO
NADA / #1 Cochran
Rob Cochran is president & CEO of #1 Cochran, Western Pennsylvania's largest automotive retailer. Founded in 1965 as a single-point Pontiac dealership, the company today operates 28 new-vehicle franchises representing 18 domestic and imported brands. #1 Cochran also operates three standalone pre-owned stores, eight collision centers and a wholesale parts distribution center.
Headquartered in Monroeville, Pa., the company's geographic footprint spans three counties throughout southwestern Pennsylvania. Cochran started his career in the automotive business in 1987 upon graduating from Carnegie Mellon University. He served as executive vice president from 1987-1992 and became president & CEO in 1992.
Cochran serves as the 2026 chairman of the National Automobile Dealers Association and represents Western Pennsylvania's franchised new-car dealers on the NADA board of directors.
[Paul Daly Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
PAUL DALY
FOUNDER & CEO
MORE THAN CARS
## PAUL DALY
FOUNDER & CEO
MORE THAN CARS
Paul J. Daly is an entrepreneur, speaker, and creator who helped pioneer new media in automotive retail. In early 2020, he founded ASOTU (Automotive State of the Union) producing daily industry livestreams, podcasts, and annual live event, ASOTU CON, that connects dealers, OEMs, and technology leaders through a human-first, tech-enabled lens.
In 2025 he merged his creative agency into ASOTU to build on the More Than Cars brand platform. More Than Cars Creative is a strategy firm and creative agency serving automotive organizations. Paul is also the co-creator and host of the Amazon Prime Video docuseries, The Truth About Car Dealers, along with business partner and co-host Kyle Mountsier.
Paul began his automotive career in as a service advisor in 2002 and in 2003 founded a northeast regional reconditioning company which he grew to a successful exit — acquired by Dent Wizard International in 2018. His advisory work today spans the U.S. and internationally, including recent consulting engagements in Central Asia.
A Philadelphia native, Paul lives in Syracuse, New York, with his wife and four children.
[John Fitzpatrick Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
JOHN FITZPATRICK
CEO
Force Marketing
## JOHN FITZPATRICK
CEO
Force Marketing
John W. Fitzpatrick is a leading voice in the automotive industry, renowned for his expertise in marketing strategies and consumer trends. As the CEO and founder of Force Marketing, John has transformed the marketing landscape for auto dealers and OEMs. He frequently speaks to dealer groups and at top automotive industry conferences and events about the transformative power of the 4A Strategy—Audience, Attention, Automation, and Attribution. His insights help businesses understand and implement cutting-edge marketing solutions to drive success in a competitive market. John’s presentations are not only informative but also inspire audiences to embrace innovative approaches for sustainable growth.
[Jason Goldberg Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
JASON GOLDBERG
GM, Global Client Development
The Trade Desk
## JASON GOLDBERG
GM, Global Client Development
The Trade Desk
Jason Goldberg is General Manger, Global Business Development for The Trade Desk. As a member of The Trade Desk’s Business Development organization, Jason builds meaningful relationships and understanding across advertisers and agencies within the automotive industry.
Jason has 7 years of experience within the automotive category and 10+ years of experience leading sales teams and helping brands move their data driven marketing strategy forward. Prior to joining The Trade Desk, Jason spent time at Google and Discovery Communications. Jason grew up in St. Louis, Missouri and has bachelor's degree from Indiana University and a master's degree in integrated marketing from Northwestern. He lives in New Jersey with his wife and three children.
[Liam Golightley Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
LIAM GOLIGHTLEY
Vice President, Customer Success
Podium
## LIAM GOLIGHTLEY
Vice President, Customer Success
Podium
Liam Golightley is the Vice President of Customer Success for Automotive at Podium. He leads the team responsible for supporting and growing Podium’s automotive customer base and has held multiple leadership roles across the company’s customer experience organization. Based in New York City and originally from the UK, Liam is passionate about helping businesses build stronger connections with their customers.
[Eleanor Gulla Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
ELEANOR GULLA
Chairwoman, Board of Directors
GNYADA
## ELEANOR GULLA
Chairwoman, Board of Directors
GNYADA
Eleanor Gulla, GNYADA Board Member since 2018, serves as the GSM/Vice President at Larchmont Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM in Westchester. She serves as Chairwoman of the GNYADA Board of Directors.
[Alan Haig Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
ALAN HAIG
President
Haig Partners, LLC
## ALAN HAIG
President
Haig Partners, LLC
Alan Haig founded Haig Partners to provide honest and authentic advice and world-class client service to buyers and sellers of higher-value dealerships and dealership groups.
A trusted expert in auto retail, Alan has been involved in the purchase or sale of more than 525 dealerships with a value of over $10.6 billion, excluding inventories. He is the creator of The Haig Report® [Click here for the latest report], auto retail’s longest-published report tracking trends in auto retail and their impact on dealership values, and he is co-author of NADA’s “A Dealer Guide to Buying and Selling a Dealership,” and he is the creator of the Haig Partners Maximizing Value Conference held at NADA and throughout the year in conjunction with various National Dealer Meetings.
Alan is a regular speaker at auto retail events such as the NADA Show, the AICPA Dealership Conference, Bank of America’s Global Automotive Summit and Auto Dealer Day and the New York Automotive Forum hosted by JD Power and NADA. He is regularly quoted in national and industry media, including Forbes, Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, CNBC, Reuters Car Dealership Guy, Automotive News, WardsAuto and CBT News.
Alan holds an MBA from Columbia Business School, an MA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a BA from Dartmouth College.
[Rick Hendrick Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
RICK HENDRICK
Chairman & CEO
Hendrick Auto Group
## RICK HENDRICK
Chairman & CEO
Hendrick Auto Group
Rick Hendrick is a self-described "gearhead" who turned his passion for the automobiles into successful business ventures in the retail automotive and professional auto racing industries.
Raised on a farm near the small community of Palmer Springs, Virginia, Hendrick worked on and raced cars under the watchful eye of his father, "Papa Joe." After high school, he pursued a co-op work-study program with North Carolina State University and Westinghouse Electric Company in Raleigh, North Carolina.
While in Raleigh, Hendrick opened a small used-car lot with established dealer Mike Leith. Its success convinced Leith to name him general sales manager of his new-car import operation at the age of 23. Today, headquartered in North Carolina, Hendrick Automotive Group generated over $13.6 billion in revenue in 2024 after selling more than 206,000 vehicles and servicing 2.6 million cars and trucks.
[Jack Hollis Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
JACK HOLLIS
Managing Partner
Accrual Equity Partners
## JACK HOLLIS
Managing Partner
Accrual Equity Partners
As Managing Partner for Accrual Equity Partners, Jack brings together advanced mobility solutions, strategic consulting, and leadership development to serve the evolving needs of the automotive and transportation sectors. After more than three decades with Toyota, retiring as EVP and Chief Operating Officer for Toyota Motor North America, Jack has earned the reputation as one of the most well-respected, enthusiastic, knowledgeable and well-known leaders in the automotive sector.
With a strong foundation in the automotive and transportation industries, Jack brings a unique blend of deep industry expertise and entrepreneurial vision to Accrual Equity Partners to drive meaningful transformation across fragmented markets. By collaborating with companies in niche sectors, he helps unlock growth opportunities and build resilient, value-driven teams. Built through intentional leadership and a people-first mindset, Jack and his colleagues leverage their experience to deliver sustainable, long-term value in complex, evolving industries.
Throughout his 33 years at Toyota, Jack held a variety of high-impact leadership roles. In his most recent role, he oversaw operations, sales, marketing, supply chain, manufacturing, distribution, and product planning for both the Toyota and Lexus brands across North America.
As Group Vice President and General Manager of Toyota Division, Jack spearheaded record-setting and industry-leading sales for over 90% of Toyota North America’s major vehicle launches. As Group VP of Marketing, he led the brand evolution during the shift to electrification and created the “Let’s Go Places” tagline and campaign. Jack also led the Scion brand, field operations, and motorsports through TRD, Gazoo Racing, and NASCAR, as well as Olympic and Paralympic partnerships.
Known for his charismatic, people-first leadership style and future-focused mindset, Jack has consistently championed innovation, customer experience, and organizational alignment. He now brings that same strategic focus and energy to his work as Managing Partner, as well as to champion and shape the future of mobility.
Jack graduated from Stanford University with a degree in Economics, was a member of Stanford’s 1988 NCAA baseball championship-winning team, and played two seasons with the Cincinnati Reds.
Jack’s personal interests include running and exercise, golfing, global ministry work and serving others. He is driven by a passion for God and family, which includes his wife of nearly 35 years and four children, and he spends a maximum amount of time on both.
[Erin Kerrigan Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
ERIN KERRIGAN
Managing Director
Kerrigan Advisors
## ERIN KERRIGAN
Managing Director
Kerrigan Advisors
Prior to founding Kerrigan Advisors, Erin headed Presidio Automotive, another boutique investment bank dedicated to auto retail based in San Francisco. Prior to Presidio, she was a Senior Vice President at iStar Financial (NYSE: SFI), a multi-billion dollar publicly-traded REIT where she led transaction origination. Early in her career, Erin was dealer operator of her family’s dealership, which she sold in 2006. She began her post-graduate career as an investment banker for Piper Jaffray in Menlo Park, California.
Erin is a recognized industry expert on dealership M&A, valuation, real estate and private equity, and is frequently quoted by The Wall Street Journal, The Economist, CNBC and Automotive News. In 2018, she was named a Women of Influence by Automotive News. Erin is a recurring speaker at leading auto retail events and conferences held by JD Power, National Auto Dealers Association (NADA), American International Auto Dealers Association (AIADA), American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), National Association of Dealer Counsel (NADC) as well as numerous state dealer associations. She has also been a keynote speaker for events hosted by Toyota Motor North America, American Honda Motor Company, Audi of America, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, US Trust and Truist. Erin is the author of The Blue Sky Report®, the industry’s leading M&A report, which is distributed to 11,000 industry participants in 35 countries and co-authored NADA’s Guide to Buying and Selling Auto Dealerships.
Erin earned her undergraduate degree from Northwestern University and her MBA from The UCLA Anderson School of Management. She resides in Incline Village, Nevada with her husband and partner, Ryan Kerrigan, and their three children, two of whom are currently attending the University of Notre Dame. Erin is a member of the Young Presidents Organization and serves on the University of Notre Dame’s Cabinet For Good Campaign and Mendoza College of Business Advisory Council, Northwestern University’s Council of 100 and the board of The League to Save Lake Tahoe.
[Thomas King Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
THOMAS KING
President, OEM Solutions
JD Power
## THOMAS KING
President, OEM Solutions
JD Power
Thomas King is President, OEM Solutions at JD Power. He joined the company in 2005.
He is responsible for JD Power’s rapidly evolving solutions for automobile manufacturers (OEMs), all of which leverage class-leading data, advanced analytics, and deep industry expertise. These solutions, which utilize both well-established and new data assets, coupled with modern technology to ensure seamless and actionable workflow integration, guide automakers in making optimized business decisions and realizing measurable improvements in sales performance, profitability, product quality, and customer satisfaction.
With over 25 years of experience in the Automotive industry, Mr. King has held multiple leadership roles focused on creating value for clients across the automotive ecosystem, including OEMs, Dealers, Financial Institutions, Insurers and Software providers. Most recently, he was President of the Data & Analytics Division & Chief Product Officer of JD Power, where he led the significant expansion of business units focused on analytics, including the Power Information Network (PIN) and Valuation Services (Used Car Values and Residual Values), while bringing multiple new products successfully to market.
Widely acknowledged as a leading authority on Automotive Market Dynamics, he regularly provides perspective on the state of the automotive industry in media outlets like Forbes, MSN and CNBC.
Prior to joining JD Power, Mr. King was in Global Market and Industry Analysis at General Motors. There, he analyzed the U.S. automotive industry, focusing on sales, pricing and incentive dynamics.
Mr. King received a master’s degree in materials science, economics and management from the University of Oxford in England.
[Patrick Manzi Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
PATRICK MANZI
Chief Economist
NADA
## PATRICK MANZI
Chief Economist
NADA
Patrick Manzi, PhD is NADA’s Chief Economist. In this role, Patrick works with both NADA as well the American Truck Dealers (ATD), a division of NADA.
Patrick regularly speaks to various audiences about the auto industry and is responsible for many of the association’s monthly and annual economic reports including NADA Data and ATD Data.
A native West Virginian, Patrick received both his undergraduate and doctorate degrees in Economics from West Virginia University. Patrick currently resides in Falls Church, VA.
[Bernie Moreno Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
BERNIE MORENO
U.S. Senator
R-OH
## BERNIE MORENO
U.S. Senator
R-OH
Bernie Moreno was born in Bogota, Colombia. He moved to the United States with his family at age five and became an American citizen at age 18. Bernie purchased his first car dealership in 2005 and grew that one dealership into one of the largest dealership groups in America, eventually employing over 1,000 Ohioans. More recently, in 2016, Bernie recognized the value and transformational potential of blockchain technology, before it received mainstream attention, and moved much of his volunteer time and investment dollars into the space.
Bernie believes that Ohioans deserve better than what they’ve gotten from Washington, and he will fight to better their lives in the United States Senate.
[John Murphy Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
JOHN MURPHY
Managing Director of Strategic Advisory
Haig Partners, LLC
## JOHN MURPHY
Managing Director of Strategic Advisory
Haig Partners, LLC
John Murphy leverages decades of experience advising global manufacturers, suppliers, investors, and dealers to deliver a unique perspective and trusted strategic counsel to the retail automotive industry. His deep background in equity research and capital markets, combined with unmatched analytical rigor, enables him to provide dealers with world-class insights that help maximize the value of their businesses.
Previously, John spent over 26 years as the senior North American automotive equity research analyst at Bank of America (previously Merrill Lynch), where he advised on investments in automotive manufacturers, suppliers, dealers, and related businesses. He played an integral role in educating investors during two of the largest IPOs in history, General Motors and Rivian, as well as other major capital raises, including the Ferrari and Delphi IPOs. He also provided strategic counsel to boards of directors and management teams across the automotive value chain.
John is often cited in both the financial and automotive press, frequently appearing on CNBC, Bloomberg TV, and Yahoo Finance, and is a regular presenter at industry events around the world. He and his team at Bank of America were named to the Institutional Investor All-America Research Team for 25 years. In 2023, he was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame as an Industry Influencer.
Key pillars of his research portfolio included Car Wars, a benchmark for OEM product pipeline competitiveness, The Dealer Manual, a comprehensive review of the dealer channel, and Who Makes the Car, an in-depth analysis of parts systems and electrification. He also founded and hosted Bank of America’s annual New York Auto Summit for 17 years, bringing together investors and executives to foster strategic discussions on capital allocation and industry direction.
Before joining the Merrill Lynch Auto group in 1999, John worked at National Economic Research Associates (NERA) in the banking and finance practice.
John earned a B.A. in Quantitative Economics from Tufts University and is a CFA charterholder.
[Jenni Newman Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
JENNI NEWMAN
Editor-in-Chief
Cars.com
## JENNI NEWMAN
Editor-in-Chief
Cars.com
Jenni brings more than 25 years of journalism experience — including over 15 years in the automotive space — and currently leads the powerhouse editorial team at Cars.com. A trusted voice in the industry, she’s passionate about helping car shoppers cut through the noise to find the right vehicle for their needs, lifestyle and budget. One of the sharpest minds in the business, Jenni is a go-to expert on everything from affordability and the impact of tariffs on car prices to broader industry trends and real-time shopper behavior. She knows how consumers shop, what they care about, and what they need to know before setting foot in a dealership — and she’s not afraid to tell it like it is.
[Katie O'Neill Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
KATIE O'NEILL
Head of Auto Fraud Prevention
Capital One
## KATIE O'NEILL
Head of Auto Fraud Prevention
Capital One
Katie O'Neill is a veteran strategist at the intersection of risk management and product innovation. She leads consumer and dealer fraud prevention for Capital One Auto, including ProtectID - Capital One Auto’s new automated fraud protection tool for auto dealers.
With a 15-year tenure at Capital One, Katie’s expertise spans several business areas, including personal loans and mortgage. She has deep expertise in automotive lending and serves as a credit officer for the auto business.
Katie holds a degree in Economics and History from the University of Michigan and resides in Dallas with her husband and three children ages 6, 3 and 7 months.
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[John Oyler Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
JOHN OYLER
Chairman, Industry Relations
NADA
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## JOHN OYLER
Chairman, Industry Relations
NADA
John S. Oyler is dealer principal of Faulkner Nissan of Jenkintown, Pa. The Faulkner Auto Group consists of 30 dealerships that carry 20 different makes throughout central and eastern Pennsylvania. He started in the automotive business in 1975 when he began representing buyers and sellers of dealerships in buy/sell transactions. In 1985 he became the outside general counsel for the Pennsylvania Automotive Association. In 1987 he formed the Automotive Dealership Law Practice Group at McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC. From 1982-1989 he owned 49% of Mechanicsburg Porsche + Audi; and in 2010 he became the dealer principal of Faulkner Nissan of Jenkintown. Oyler serves as chairman of the Industry Relations Committee and represents Eastern Pennsylvania’s franchised new-car dealers on the board of directors of the National Automobile Dealers Association.
[Steve Rowley Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
STEVE ROWLEY
President & CEO
COX AUTOMOTIVE
## STEVE ROWLEY
President & CEO
COX AUTOMOTIVE
Stephen M. Rowley is President of Cox Automotive, a global automotive services and software company whose vision is to transform the way the world buys, sells, owns and uses cars. Rowley is responsible for a family of brands that together make car dealers more successful and car buyers more satisfied, including auto industry leaders such as Autotrader, Dealer.com, Dealertrack, Kelley Blue Book, Manheim, NextGear Capital, vAuto and Xtime.
Rowley previously served as the Executive Vice President of Cox Business. In this role, he was responsible for the strategic direction of the high-growth division that delivered more than $2 billion in annual revenue. He oversaw all sales, operations, product development and marketing for business customers, including wholesale services for telecom carriers. Prior to leading Cox Business, Rowley was the Vice President of sales and field operations for Cox Business’ western U.S. markets where he served as the chief liaison between corporate headquarters and the western markets with oversight on local strategic planning, sales performance, marketing, back office, customer installations and capital investment.
Prior to joining Cox Business, Rowley was Vice President of Alliances and Partners at Sprint, where he managed relationships with more than 500 partners, generating $250 million in annual revenue. In addition, Rowley was responsible for the strategic direction of the Telemetry group where he negotiated and managed contracts with Dell, Sony, HP and others. In his 11 years with Sprint, Rowley held key senior leadership roles in the sales organizations as Vice President of Enterprise, Vice President of General Business and Vice President of Sales for Sprint’s Broadband Division.
In addition to extensive telecommunications experience, Rowley spent 12 years as a key executive at People’s Choice TV, having held positions such as Vice President General Manager of Chicago, Tucson and Phoenix and later, the Vice President of Sales and Operations for the company.
He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Iowa State University. Steve is married to Susan and they have three children, Timothy, Collin Patrick and Maggie.
[Mark Schienberg Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
MARK SCHIENBERG
President
GNYADA
## MARK SCHIENBERG
President
GNYADA
Before joining the Association, Mark Schienberg headed his own broadcasting and political consulting business. Throughout his career, Schienberg has been called on numerous times to provide commentary for the national and local media and is one of the most widely quoted experts in New York’s automotive business. He was appointed to the Board of the Flushing Meadow Corona Park Corporation in 2002, is a member of the Hudson Yard Coalition and sits on the Board of Daytop, an organization for individuals with substance abuse problems. He is Chair of the NYC Department of Education Automotive Advisory Council and has won awards from Northwood University and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Schienberg joined GNYADA in 1985 as one of three staff members and has been running this 113-year-old automotive trade organization since 1987. Schienberg was born and raised in Queens, NY.
[Brian Sponheimer Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
BRIAN SPONHEIMER
Sr. Vice President
Gamco Investors, Inc.
## BRIAN SPONHEIMER
Sr. Vice President
Gamco Investors, Inc.
Brian Sponheimer is a Co-Portfolio Manager of Gabelli’s flagship Value mutual fund, the Gabelli Asset Fund, Co-Portfolio Manager of the firm’s flagship closed end fund, The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust and a senior research team member. He is currently responsible for oversight of the firm’s Industrial research platform, including automotive, trucking, machinery, utility, aerospace, energy and chemical sectors. Since 2008, Brian has focused on automotive and machinery stocks for the Gabelli team.
Mr. Sponheimer has appeared on CNBC and Bloomberg and has been recognized by publications including The Wall Street Journal and Financial Times as a “Best on the Street” analyst.
He graduated cum laude with a B.A. in Government from Harvard University and earned an M.B.A. from Columbia Business School.
[Mike Stanton Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
MIKE STANTON
President & CEO
NADA
## MIKE STANTON
President & CEO
NADA
Mike Stanton became NADA’s president & CEO on January 1, 2021. He previously served as NADA’s executive vice president and chief operating officer.
Stanton has represented NADA and dealer interests for over 20 years in roles with the Industry Affairs Department and the NADA Used Car Guide.
Stanton received a bachelor’s degree in political science from James Madison University and a MBA from Virginia Tech.
He is married to Kelly and they have three children.
[Jason Stein Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
JASON STEIN
Event MC
## JASON STEIN
Event MC
Jason Stein joined Presidio as Marketing and Communications Advisor in September 2022. Mr. Stein, a media and business professional with 25 years of experience across multiple platforms, is a leading personality in the global automotive space.
Jason also serves as the CEO of Flat Six Media, a media, marketing services and broadcasting platform. He assists companies with growth initiatives, business development and media engagement. In addition to Flat Six Media, he is also the host of SiriusXM’s radio show, “**Cars & Culture with Jason Stein,” **which** **appears four times per week on Business Radio 132 and is syndicated on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Pandora, Spotify and the SiriusXM app.
[Stewart Stropp Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
STEWART STROPP
Vice President, Customer Success
JD Power
## STEWART STROPP
Vice President, Customer Success
JD Power
Stewart Stropp is Vice President, Automotive Retail at JD Power. He is responsible for the company’s U.S. syndicated retail research including flagship studies Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) and Customer Service Index (CSI). His team further manages a variety of proprietary research engagements including enterprise-level strategic consulting, sales and service retention programs and localized customer experience consulting and training.
Prior to his current role, Stewart served as executive director of the EV practice at JD Power, where he was responsible for optimizing and leveraging the company’s intelligence to help clients and stakeholders accelerate EV adoption. He regularly provided perspective on the industry’s electrified future at trade events and in media outlets like Forbes, Associated Press, Automotive News, InsideEVs and The Drive.
Stewart’s role in the EV practice followed an expansive body of work at JD Power focused on the automotive retail experience with projects and services including standards development, retail operations consulting (digital and in-store), analysis of consumer behaviors, assessment of marketplace evolution (including EVs) and nationwide speaking tours.
Stewart’s career started in the Marketing, Sales, & Service division at Ford Motor Company. After transferring from headquarters to the field to assume various management roles, he returned to headquarters to pursue strategic leadership assignments including field operations manager, Quick Lane® national marketing manager and marketing manager, Global Small Cars.
Stewart holds a Master’s degree in business administration from Mays Business School at Texas A&M University and a Bachelor’s degree in liberal arts from the University of Texas.
[Michael Ward Bio ](https://www.autoforumny.com/speakers#)
MICHAEL P. WARD
Managing Director, Automotive Research
Citi
## MICHAEL P. WARD
Managing Director, Automotive Research
Citi
Mr. Ward has been a sell-side analyst covering the auto, auto parts, and dealer sectors since 1982. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from St Joseph’s University, a Master of Business Administration in Finance from Iona University (formally Iona College) and is a Chartered Financial Analyst. Mr. Ward spent the first ten years of his career working for Ward Transportation Research, an independent research boutique which specialized in the automotive and airline sectors. He spent the next 10 years working for major Wall Street firms, including Kidder, Peabody & Company, Bear Stearns, PaineWebber, and SalomonSmithBarney covering the auto sector. In 2005, he restarted Ward Transportation Research, between 2011-18 Mr. Ward followed the auto sector for Sterne Agee, between 2018-20 he was employed by Seaport Global Securities, and between 2020-24 he worked for The Benchmark Company. In 2024, Mr. Ward was employed by Freedom Capital Markets, and in late-March 2025 he joined Citi Research as a Managing Director to cover the US automotive sector. Mr. Ward has been a 7-time member of the Institutional Investor All-American research team and a 5-time Wall Street Journal All-Star. Between 2016-19 Mr. Ward was a member of the Board of Directors of Roadrunner Transportation Systems, a $2 billion publicly traded transportation company. Mr. Ward is an Adjunct Professor of Finance at the Dolan School of Business at Fairfield University.
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