Sellers Has Nearly 15 Years of Experience in the Automotive and Aftermarket Space
FullSpeed Automotive, an umbrella franchisor of automotive concepts, announced Kelvin Sellers as general counsel. He spent nearly 15 years in the automotive and aftermarket space and has law firm, public accounting, and in-house counsel expertise. Concepts under the FullSpeed Automotive umbrella include SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service, Grease Monkey, Kwik Kar, Herbert Automotive, Super Lube Plus, and Excel Car Wash.
In his search for new opportunities, Sellers was approached by a legal recruiter about the opportunity at FullSpeed Automotive. As he met with chief executive officer Rob Lynch and other senior leaders, Sellers felt their passion and energy for the business.
“I was left with the impression that Rob is building something special, and he was surrounding himself with leaders committed to this journey. The vision and the electricity of the leadership team drew me in. I am thrilled for the opportunity to serve as a legal leader, but more importantly, business leader,” Sellers said. He looks forward to building new relationships, sharing his experience and learning from other leaders. In addition to Sellers, Automotive recently added Scott Accardo as vice president of operations for SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service.
Lynch released a statement regarding Sellers’ role. “Kelvin’s vast experience and accomplishments in the automotive and aftermarket space are admirable and impressive. I’m very excited to bring him on as general counsel at FullSpeed, and I know he will do great things in this role to help support our brand and franchisees.”
The Importance of General Counsel
Sellers believes it is critically important that franchisors and franchisees have good legal counsel. “There are so many traps out there for the unwary and potential stumbling blocks associated with engaging with your franchising ecosystem. You need thoughtful counsel on how to manage relationships with your customers, competitors, suppliers, governmental authorities, brand partners, and even within the walls of your very own organization.” To Sellers, good legal counsel is committed to understanding a business, being in sync with the client’s vision and pushing them towards achieving success.
A Meaningful Business Model
Sellers started his career as a certified public accountant providing tax services to franchisors, and he continued his involvement in franchising as he transitioned to practice law. As a young professional, Sellers admittedly lacked a full appreciation for the meaningful impact franchising has on communities. Having served as a leader in two franchising companies, he now realizes how important it is to economies and the generational wealth of families. “I love being a player in supporting businesses of all sizes, along with confronting the opportunities and challenges that it represents,” he added.
Sellers urges aspiring entrepreneurs to build meaningful relationships, do their research, approach their business and personal lives with a spirit toward service, and not be afraid to take measured risks.