Bryan DeBoer

Bryan DeBoer ’88

As an Ashland-born SOU student, the grounded hometown education taught by a diverse group of engaged professors prepared me well for my career in automotive retailing.

Hometown

Medford, Oregon

Degree

BS Business Administration/Management, summa cum laude, 1988

Current Occupation

President & CEO at Lithia Motors, Incorporated based in Medford, OR

Bryan’s Story

Bryan was born and raised in southern Oregon, where his family has strong roots. His grandfather, Walt DeBoer started Lithia Motors in Ashland, OR, in 1946. Bryan showed an early interest and desire in the family automotive business and soon followed in both Walt’s and father Sid’s footsteps. After graduating from SOU, Bryan joined Lithia Motors in 1989 where he worked his way through the managerial ranks at the dealerships, attaining General Manager. In 1990, Bryan graduated from the National Auto Dealers Association Dealer Academy where he was trained in all operational aspects of auto retailing. Prior to becoming CEO in 2012, Bryan has worked in various corporate capacities in mergers, acquisitions and operations, culminating in President and Chief Operating Officer.

Bryan has an avid appreciation of wine and community and has worked on the Hearts & Vines Foundation Board of Trustees and also served as President. He is a member of various automobile industry organizations, including the ADP National Strategic Dealer Advisory Board, American Import Automotive Dealers Association (AIADA), Oregon Auto Dealers Association (OADA), and The President’s Club of the National Auto Dealers Association (NADA). Bryan has earned several awards including The Business Journal’s, “Forty under Forty” Award in 2005.

Bryan is the 2014 SOU Distinguished Alumni of the Year award recipient.