Sonic Automotive Inc has announced the appointment of Harry Harden as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), effective from January 1, 2024. He assumes responsibilities from Angela Broadway, who retired on December 31, 2023.

In his new role, Harden, who rejoined the automotive company in 2021, brings over 25 years of HR expertise in the automobile and textile manufacturing sectors. His core competencies include HR operations, benefits, compliance, recruitment, and performance management, which will further bolster Sonic’s commitment to providing an exceptional employee experience. 

In his previous roles, Harden worked with Sonic Automotive for over 14 years in the capacity of Vice President of Human Resources before stepping down in 2015. He joined RFJ Auto Partners (acquired by Sonic Automotive in 2021) as the VP of HR and HR Consultant. He also worked with Dyersburg Corporation and WestPoint Stevens at the beginning of his career.

Welcoming Harden back to the leadership team, David B. Smith, Chairman, and CEO of Sonic Automotive said, “Harry had a tremendous impact throughout his first tenure with our company, and we are confident in his ability to add value to our teammate experience and serve as our CHRO.”

Extending wishes to outgoing CHRO Angela, he added, “Many thanks to Angela Broadway, our company’s first CHRO, for her vision and dedication to helping us create our exceptional teammate experience."

Jeff Dyke, President of Sonic Automotive, also commented on this leadership transition, “We were excited for Harry to rejoin our team in 2021 and believe his deep knowledge of our company’s operations enables him to hit the ground running as our CHRO. We are incredibly grateful for Angela Broadway’s impact on our company’s teammate experience under her leadership as CHRO and wish her a very enjoyable retirement.”

Harden expressed, “The opportunity to rejoin this leadership team and continue my career with Sonic Automotive was something I could not have imagined nor declined. The company has a unique focus on each teammate, where creating opportunities for success makes it a special place. I am truly honored to be back at Sonic Automotive.”