Dealership buy-sell advisory firm Haig Partners has named longtime auto industry executive Dave Rowe as its new managing director.

The company said Rowe will serve clients nationwide, but will focus primarily on Texas and other states in the Central and Southwest regions.

Rowe said in a news release that he has always admired Haig Partners and is “looking forward to working with owners of high-value dealerships as they look to grow or sell their businesses.”

Rowe most recently served for six years as chief financial officer for Sewell Automotive Companies, which operates 19 dealerships in Texas, leading the company’s finance, accounting, banking and insurance activities, and evaluating dealership acquisition opportunities.

Rowe’s 35-year career in auto retail also includes almost 30 years with Ally Financial, during which he was involved in analyzing and financing more than 100 acquisitions. His roles with Ally included Western region vice president and managing auto lending operations in the Central region, which included regional oversight of its dealer lending business and sales and marketing activities.

“He has a remarkable background with well-respected brands in automotive retail,” Haig Partners president Alan Haig said. “And Dave’s leadership experience with Sewell, a company renowned for its commitment to ‘customers for life,’ aligns seamlessly with the culture and values we uphold at Haig Partners.

“As we navigate the dynamic landscape of automotive retail, Dave’s industry insights and commitment to excellence will help our clients to achieve their financial and strategic objectives.”