Automotive Group announces the appointment of Ashley L. Grindstaff as President and C.O.O. of the corporation.

Founded in 1987 by Steve Grindstaff. Grindstaff acquired the former Bunton Chevrolet in Elizabethton, and expanded his brand into Johnson City with Chevrolet, Cadillac, VW, Subaru and KIA. Steve Grindstaff also developed two additional KIA dealerships, located in Bristol and Kingsport, culminating in a massive 14 rooftop corporation. Over time, “The Boss” scaled back and narrowed his brand to the current five rooftops that he is proud to promote as “progressive franchises that have achieved lasting success and stability in the modern car industry”.

Grindstaff Automotive Group currently consists of five franchises that include FORD, CHRYSLER, DODGE, and JEEP located in Elizabethton, and KIA, located in Johnson City.

“I am excited to transfer the presidency to my wife, who has worked alongside me for almost 15 years,” says Steve Grindstaff. “Ashley is more than meets the eye, she consistently exhibits the same passion and genuine appreciation as I do for our customers, tirelessly gives her time to community philanthropy, works to uplift those she meets and most importantly, and is a fiercely devoted mother to our three boys. I am proud to say that Ashley continually breaks barriers through her hard work, determination and dedication to our business, community and family.

“Ashley has more than proven her capabilities in the automotive industry. Under her leadership as co-owner and C.O.O. of Grindstaff KIA, it has been ranked number 1 in the district for 10 quarters in a row for excellence in customer satisfaction and ranked 28th in the U.S.A. amongst KIA dealers.”

Grindstaff CDJR was recently awarded a “Distinguished Dealer for Outstanding Performance” award by Chrysler Capital.