New president named at #1 Cochran

Auto dealer #1 Cochran has named a new president.

Denny Patton, current vice president and chief operating officer, will succeed Rob Cochran as president. Cochran, who has held the role since 1992, will remain CEO and transition to chairman.

Cochran will maintain his involvement in the business.

He said the leadership change will allow him to focus on the 58-year-old company’s continued evolution.

The company, which employs 1,800, has been expanding through a series of acquisitions in recent months. Most recently, it bought the Flynn Automotive Group in Eastern Ohio for an undisclosed amount. It was the fifth deal this year for #1 Cochran. The company is largest automotive retailer in Western Pennsylvania and operates 34 showrooms representing 19 brands.

The Ohio deal followed another in August, when Cochran snapped up South Hills Honda in Peters Township.

“Over the past year, we’ve experienced unprecedented growth, not only in our home market but also establishing a substantial presence in Youngstown, Ohio,” Cochran said. “Our leadership shift will create a tighter structure, making us more nimble and even more customer-centric as we continue to innovate the car buying experience.”

Patton has more than 30 years in the industry. He joined #1 Cochran in 2006 and became vice president and COO in 2011.

The company also made two more promotions: Neal Jennings, vice president and chief financial officer, to executive vice president/CFO; and Jim Dye, chief technology officer, to vice president/CTO.