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CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Chapel Hill Tire has launched a Leadership Development Program (LDP) to cultivate the next generation of leaders within the company.

The program, developed under the leadership of L2 Manager Stephen Hall, is a rigorous nine-month initiative crafted to challenge participants and stimulate critical thinking about their roles as leaders within the store, the company said.

The program aims to boost productivity through effective time management and workforce management techniques, ultimately shaping high-caliber managers equipped to drive success in the automotive industry.

“With the Chapel Hill Tire Leadership Development Program, we sought to create a comprehensive platform that not only equips participants with the necessary skills for effective leadership but also challenges them to think critically about their processes,” Hall said.

“Our goal is to cultivate a cohort of leaders who are not only capable of driving results but also passionate about continuous improvement and innovation.”

The inaugural class of seven employees will convene twice per month for one full-day session and a one- to two-hour follow-up. Each session delves into essential leadership topics, providing participants with insights and practical strategies for success taught by various members of the management team.

“One unique aspect of the program is the assignment of accountability partners within the cohort, fostering a culture of mutual support and encouragement. Between sessions, participants engage in hands-on learning experiences through assigned homework and checklists, further solidifying their understanding of key concepts,” the company said.

As part of the program’s immersive approach, participants have the opportunity to swap roles with team members from different stores, serving as acting managers for two weeks.

The hands-on experience allows them to gain valuable insights into different operational environments and hone their leadership skills in real-world scenarios, the dealership said.

The leadership program culminates in a graduation ceremony where each participant presents on their learnings and growth throughout the program.

“We are thrilled to launch the Chapel Hill Tire Leadership Development Program, a testament to our commitment to nurturing talent and striving for excellence within our organization,” President Marc Pons said.

“This program represents an investment in the future of our company, empowering our team members to reach their full potential and lead with confidence.”

Chapel Hill Tire, which marked its 70th anniversary last year, operates 11 stores in the Triangle area, including one in Cary, N.C., that it acquired in late 2022 from Bull Tire& Service.