Walega Is the Automotive Aftermarket Franchise’s First Female C-Suite Executive
Ziebart International Corporation, a leading automotive aftermarket franchise, has moved Larisa Walega up to serve as senior vice president and chief growth officer. With the promotion, Walega becomes the automotive franchise’s first-ever female C-suite executive. She joined Ziebart in 2009 and has held several marketing positions.
“It’s a great honor to be the first female C-suite at Ziebart, especially in what’s traditionally a predominantly male-centric industry. It’s never been a more exciting time to be part of a leadership team full of like-minded entrepreneurs, especially in the franchising and automotive industries that are each undergoing their own renaissance,” Walega said in a statement.
She will focus on areas that the automotive brand has identified as growth opportunities. Walega noted that the franchise automotive aftermarket is continuing to grow, and Ziebart aims to connect with franchisee candidates who have a passion for vehicles and serving their communities. As a Detroit resident, she understands the legacy of the industry in Motor City, where Ziebart is based.
Since starting with the company, Walega credits former Ziebart CEO Thomas E. Wolfe and his son, current CEO Thomas A. Wolfe, for reestablishing a customer-first approach to reinventing the automotive brand. “Decisions are made in the best interest of our customers, franchise owners and millions of worldwide drivers we serve,” Walega said.
A Growing Team
The aftermarket automotive franchise has also made other promotions within its leadership ranks. Walega is joined on the executive team by Brian Jackman, senior vice president and chief operating officer, and Jason Case, vice president and treasurer.
CEO and President Wolfe released a statement regarding these promotions. “Each of these three leaders has demonstrated a strong commitment to the brand with their personal connections with every one of our remarkable franchise owners. Between Brian and Jason’s strong financial eyes, paired with Larisa’s passion for marketing and the franchising industry as a whole, and their shared fearless attitudes and service mindsets, I’m confident we are putting our strongest players exactly where our focus needs to be to launch Ziebart to its full potential.”
Franchising and Growth
Walega worked in the advertising agency arena before joining Ziebart. During that time, a combination of training and strong mentorship helped her move forward in her career. Walega appreciates that working in franchising allows her to help entrepreneurs achieve their dreams.
In advice to entrepreneurs, she urges them to focus on building and nurturing their teams. To that end, business owners should: give team members the tools, education and coaching to provide excellent customer service; clearly communicate business goals; and celebrate successes.
About Ziebart International
Founded in 1959, Ziebart International Corp. is a worldwide leader in premium automotive appearance and protection services. The automotive aftermarket franchise operates over 400 locations, with 1,300 service centers in 37 countries, according to a press release.
