Genuine Parts Co. said Monday it named Paul D. Donahue president of the Atlanta-based company's domestic automotive parts division.

Donahue, 52, replaces Larry Samuelson, who retired in May after more than 30 years with the company.

Genuine Parts' automotive division, which operates under the NAPA brand in the United States and Canada, accounts for nearly 50 percent of the company's overall business. The business distributes replacement parts and accessories for autos, trucks, SUVs, farm and other motor vehicles.

Donahue, who was hired in 2003 as an executive vice president of sales and marketing in Genuine Parts' office products division, was president of Sanford North America, a unit of Sandy Springs-based Newell Rubbermaid.

After being promoted to executive vice president of Genuine Parts in 2007, Donahue led many of the automotive unit's operations.

In his new role he reports directly to Tom Gallagher, Genuine Parts' chairman and chief executive.

About the Author

Keep Reading

A Delta jet is seen at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Delta and Aeromexico have a code-sharing relationship dating back to 1994.(Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez/AJC

Featured

In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com