Christian Brothers Automotive CEO Donnie Carr Receives Prestigious EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award
Christian Brothers Automotive (CBA) is celebrating a significant achievement as its President and CEO, Donnie Carr, has been named the recipient of the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2025 Gulf South Award. This honor, conferred by Ernst & Young LLP (EY US), recognizes visionary leaders who contribute to the growth and value of their businesses through innovation, purpose, and entrepreneurial spirit. Donnie Carr is now part of an esteemed group of entrepreneurs distinguished for their outstanding leadership across the Gulf South region, which encompasses Central and South Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi.
Carr expressed immense pride in receiving this award, emphasizing that it reflects the collective effort of the entire Christian Brothers Automotive family, including franchisees, front-line team members, and support staff. "This recognition belongs to every person across our brand who has made Christian Brothers Automotive what it is today," he stated. Carr's leadership has been instrumental in fostering a culture that aligns with the company's mission, which is deeply rooted in the principle of serving neighbors with love and respect.
The EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® program is celebrating its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of honoring ambitious entrepreneurs from various industries. The independent panel of judges evaluates candidates based on several criteria, including leadership, growth, innovation, and community involvement. Donnie Carr’s commitment to excellence and service is a testament to why he is a deserving recipient of this prestigious accolade.
Following this award, Carr will represent Christian Brothers Automotive at the National EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® Awards, scheduled for November during the annual Strategic Growth Forum®. This gathering is one of the most prestigious events highlighting high-growth, market-leading companies nationwide. It also serves as a great opportunity for networking and sharing insights among business leaders.
Founded in 1986, the EY Entrepreneur of the Year program has celebrated over 11,000 ambitious visionaries across the United States and has expanded globally into nearly 60 countries. The program includes 17 regional programs, with winners from each region advancing to compete for national recognition. Those who excel at the national level have a chance to represent the US at the EY World Entrepreneur of the Year™ competition.
In addition to the EY award, Christian Brothers Automotive has been recognized in the automotive service industry for its customer satisfaction, having ranked #1 in J.D. Power's Aftermarket Service Index six times consecutively. CBA, committed to its guiding principles, founded in 1982, has grown to more than 310 locations across 30 states, providing a range of auto-care services such as maintenance, repair, and high-quality customer experiences.
This recognition for Donnie Carr could lead to increased recognition for Christian Brothers Automotive, establishing it further in the automotive service industry while highlighting the transformative impact of strong leadership rooted in genuine service to others. As CBA continues to grow, it remains dedicated to upholding its foundational mission of loving neighbors as oneself, reinforcing its position as an industry leader committed to excellence in auto services.
As the company looks to the future, Carr’s recognition at the EY awards is a considerable lift, not just for him personally, but for everyone associated with the Christian Brothers Automotive brand. It signifies the success in combining entrepreneurial spirit with a deep commitment to community and customer satisfaction, setting a high bar for excellence in the automotive industry.