Lithia & Driveway (NYSE: LAD) has appointed Scott Cooke as president of operations, effective immediately. Cooke, who previously served as president and CEO of Toyota Financial Services, will oversee store operations in the Southeast and South-Central United States, Driveway Finance Corporation and the company’s Finance and Insurance (F&I) divisions.
The appointment follows the planned retirement of Chuck Lietz, who currently leads Driveway Finance Corporation. Cooke will work alongside Mike Cavanaugh, Bryan Osterhout and Neil Williamson, who serve as operations presidents for other regions within Lithia & Driveway.
Cooke brings 25 years of experience in automotive finance and operations to his new role, including oversight of assets exceeding $150 billion during his tenure at Toyota Financial Services. Lithia & Driveway President and CEO Bryan DeBoer said Cooke’s leadership aligns with the company’s culture and operational focus.
Lietz’s retirement is scheduled for 2027.
