December 2, 2024
Third-Generation Leadership Ushers in New Era at Cecil Clark Chevrolet
By Cindy Peterson
Third-Generation Leadership Ushers in New Era at Cecil Clark Chevrolet
Cecil Clark Chevrolet, a trusted name in the Leesburg community for over 50 years, is proud to announce its transition to third-generation leadership. Joseph Clark, grandson of founder Cecil Clark, has officially taken ownership of the dealership, continuing his family’s legacy of dedication to exceptional service, community involvement, and Chevrolet brand loyalty.
Joseph, who grew up in Leesburg, has been immersed in the car business since the age of 12. Starting with washing cars and working in parts, he later moved into sales and management roles, learning every aspect of the dealership. On Halloween, he took over the business after his father, Greg Clark, retired.
“This business is in my blood,” Joseph Clark says. “I’ve worked in every department, and I’ve seen the hard work and dedication that my grandfather and father poured into this dealership. Taking over is not just about running a business; it’s about continuing a family legacy.”
Cecil Clark, a Navy veteran, founded the dealership in 1972 after a successful career as a door-to-door salesman selling Chevrolet pickup trucks and Frigidaire refrigerators. He chose Leesburg over other locations, such as Key West and Myrtle Beach, believing it would be the best place to raise his family. His vision and hard work established Cecil Clark Chevrolet as a staple in the community.
“Cecil passed away 17 years ago, but his legacy lives on,” Joseph reflected. “My dad bought him out in 2002, and now, as the third generation, I’m proud to build on the foundation they created.”
Under Joseph’s leadership, Cecil Clark Chevrolet is undergoing a strategic rebranding, focusing on modernization while staying true to its heritage. The dealership is implementing new processes and technologies to make the car-buying experience seamless and consumer-friendly.
“We love the direction we’re going,” Joseph said. “It’s about keeping with tradition while embracing modernization. A lot of times, we get stuck in 1997, and we need to move forward to better serve our customers.”
Joseph is also committed to maintaining the dealership’s reputation for integrity and quality, addressing the challenges the automotive industry faces today.
“Car salespeople have a bad reputation, but we are held to a higher standard,” he explained. “My fantastic team steps up every day to ensure we make the process as easy and effortless as possible for our customers.”
Joseph and his family remain deeply connected to the Leesburg community. Living in Sunnyside with his wife and two children, both students at Leesburg High School, Joseph is committed to supporting local events and organizations.
“If it’s within a 15-mile radius of my store, I sponsor it,” he said. “We’re big on social and big on community events. This isn’t just about selling cars; it’s about being part of the community and making a positive impact.”
For Joseph, taking over Cecil Clark Chevrolet is more than a career—it’s a calling.
“I cannot tell you the number of dealers in their 70s who wish their children were interested in taking over,” he said. “My dad values that I wanted to continue the family legacy, and I value the opportunity to carry it forward. It’s what I was born to do.”
As Cecil Clark Chevrolet moves forward under Joseph’s leadership, the dealership remains committed to delivering the same trusted service while embracing innovation to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
Originally from the small town of Berryville, Arkansas, Cindy has become a multimedia specialist in journalism, photography, videography, and video editing. She has a B.S. in Communications from the University of Central Arkansas and produces Style Magazine's Sports Hub Podcast and the Healthy Living Podcast. She also produces for Beacon College’s Telly Award-winning PBS show, “A World of Difference.” When she isn’t working, Cindy loves traveling the National Parks with her husband , Ryan, and son, David, photographing wildlife.