Genuine Parts Company Announces Board Leadership Transition

By Staff Writer Atlanta Trend

• Jan 30, 2026

Genuine Parts Company announced today Paul D. Donahue, Non-Executive Chairman, plans to retire from the Board of Directors at the company's 2026 annual meeting of shareholders. The company also announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Will Stengel, currently the company's President and Chief Executive Officer, to the additional role of Chairman of the Board of Directors. Upon Mr. Donahue's retirement, Mr. Stengel will assume the combined position of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

"On behalf of the entire Board, I want to express our profound gratitude to Paul for his extraordinary service to GPC," said P. Russell Hardin, lead independent director. "Paul has served the company with distinction for more than two decades, successfully streamlining GPC's portfolio and strengthening governance while upholding the values and principles that have made GPC successful for almost a century. He leaves us with a tremendous foundation, which positions us well to pursue opportunities that enhance operational performance, improve profitability and unlock shareholder value."

"It has been a privilege to serve GPC, and I am incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished together," said Mr. Donahue. "As I prepare to retire from the Board, I am pleased with the Board's decision to appoint Will as the company's next Chairman. His strategic clarity and deep understanding of our businesses make him the ideal leader to guide GPC forward as we enter this next chapter."

Mr. Stengel has served as a member of the Board of Directors and as the company's President and Chief Executive Officer since June 2024. Mr. Stengel previously served as President of GPC from January 2021 to January 2023 and as Executive Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer from November 2019 to January 2021. The combined roles of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer promote unified leadership and direction for the company and leverage Mr. Stengel's extensive operational and strategic expertise.

"The Board's decision to appoint Will as our next Chairman further underscores its confidence in his strategic vision and ability to lead the company during this important time," continued Mr. Hardin.

"I am deeply humbled to assume the role of Chairman upon Paul's retirement," said Mr. Stengel. "Paul has been an incredible mentor, and his leadership has been pivotal to the success of GPC. I look forward to collaborating closely with the Board and our talented team as we continue to pursue operational and strategic initiatives that drive profitable growth and long-term value for shareholders."