Dean Fisher, former owner of CARSTAR Yorkville in Yorkville, Ill., has completed transfer of ownership to his son, Justin.
“It’s an incredible feeling to see your son take over your business, not only as a parent but as a business owner,” said Dean, who joined CARSTAR in 1990 and is widely recognized as a top operator in the CARSTAR network. “He brings an entirely new perspective to a pretty traditional business model, and I’m excited to see how he applies his experience in information technology, analytics and operations to the company.
"I know he’s not going to do everything the same way I did – and that’s great. We have built a successful family business on providing that personal touch with our customers and delivering the highest quality repairs, and I know that will continue. Justin is a diamond in the rough, and I look forward to seeing him become a great owner in the CARSTAR network.”
A 2005 graduate of Northern Illinois University with a bachelor of science in business administration, Justin has honed his skills in business operations, sales, project management and team leadership through previous positions with Axis Designs, Press One/Circulation Services and Results Companies.
But the younger Fisher would not characterize himself as the “car guy” his father is.
“I’m more focused on the front end of the shop where I can use my experience in IT, data analysis and financial operations to help us continue to grow our company," said Justin. “Today’s collision repair shop has evolved to the point where it is tough for one person to be both the repair expert and the business expert. We have an incredible team of body repair professionals who deliver the highest quality repairs. I want to let them continue to do great work. I just want to bring the resources and guidance to helping us continue to achieve strong operating standards and customer satisfaction levels as we expand our business.”
Dean Fisher has owned multiple automotive-related companies for 37 years. He has served as chairman of the Chicagoland Business Group twice and has been a board member for 16 years. He has served on CARSTAR’s operation, insurance and marketing committees, and has been a member of the CARSTAR Advisory Board twice, including serving as vice-chair in 2011.
Fisher and CARSTAR Yorkville have received numerous awards for their service excellence and professional image in the industry, including the 2012 CARSTAR Franchisee of the Year.
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