Experienced automotive leader Don Wessels named to lead Huntsville’s longstanding, locally owned Ford dealership

Don Wessels

HUNTSVILLE, AL – Woody Anderson Ford today announced the promotion of Don Wessels to General Manager, marking a leadership transition shaped by a deep commitment to people, performance, and community.

Wessels has spent nearly two decades at Woody Anderson Ford, joining the dealership in 2008 and steadily advancing through leadership roles across sales and operations, most recently serving as Chief Operating Officer. His promotion reflects both sustained results and a leadership philosophy grounded in operational discipline, team development, and customer experience.

As General Manager, Wessels will oversee all dealership operations, with responsibility for strategic execution, workforce development, and continued alignment with Ford Motor Company. The transition comes as the dealership continues to invest in its facilities, people, and long-term role as a major employer and community partner in North Alabama.

Don Wessels in 2008 attending one of his first Caught Ya meetings, a company-wide celebration held monthly to support all team members.

Wessels’ connection to the Ford brand runs deep. His great-grandfather worked for Ford Motor Company during the Great Depression, a legacy Wessels has described as shaping his appreciation for the responsibility that comes with leading a Ford dealership generations later. That sense of stewardship has carried through his career, influencing a leadership style focused on doing things the right way.

During his tenure as COO, Wessels played a key role in modernizing operations, strengthening cross-department collaboration, and developing internal leadership talent. Under his leadership, the dealership has continued to earn national recognition from Ford Motor Company, including multiple Triple Crown Awards and President’s Awards, placing Woody Anderson Ford among a small group of top-performing dealers nationwide.

Wessels is a graduate of the NADA Dealer Academy and recently participated in Ford Motor Company’s Dealer Executive Conference, where dealership leaders from across the country engaged directly with Ford executives on operational excellence. He has emphasized the importance of translating those learnings into practical improvements that benefit employees and customers alike.

“Our success has always come down to people,” Wessels said. “I’m proud of the team around me and grateful for the trust that’s been placed in me. This dealership has a strong foundation, and I’m excited to continue building on it—for our employees, our customers, and our community.”

Beyond the dealership, Wessels has remained actively engaged in the Huntsville community. He has served on the Board of Directors of the Land Trust of North Alabama and currently serves on the Foundation Board of Drake State Community and Technical College, supporting educational access and workforce readiness programs aligned with North Alabama’s growing employment needs.

“This was a natural and well-earned next step for Don,” said Cathy Stender. “Don understands how to run this business and how to protect what makes it special. His integrity, consistency, and respect for people make him the right leader for this next chapter.”

Today, Woody Anderson Ford is the largest it has ever been, serving more customers than at any point in its history and employing the largest team the dealership has ever had—a reflection of both intentional investment and the continued growth of the Huntsville and North Alabama region.

With Wessels assuming the role of General Manager, Woody Anderson Ford is positioned for its next phase of growth amid continued expansion in the Huntsville and North Alabama region—moving forward with a leader shaped by experience and a clear commitment to people, reinforcing a leadership model built for longevity and long-term success.

Woody Anderson Ford held a ribbon cutting at the new Ford Pro Building for a public opening celebration on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.  (Photo by Michael Mercier)