Genuine Parts Co Announces CEO Succession & Executive Leadership Appointments Ahead of Planned Separation

Executive Summary

On September 9, 2026, Genuine Parts Company (NYSE: GPC) filed an 8-K detailing executive leadership appointments and compensation packages in connection with its planned separation of its Global Automotive and Global Industrial businesses into two independent publicly traded companies (targeted for completion in Q1 2027).

Key Leadership Appointments

1. Court Carruthers – CEO-Elect & Director

   • Effective Date: September 8, 2026.
   • Role: Appointed CEO-Elect and will become CEO of Genuine Parts Company (Automotive business) upon consummation of the spin-off. Continues to serve on the Board.
   • Compensation Structure:
     • CEO-Elect: Base salary of $1,000,000; 2026 target bonus of 150% (pro-rated 4/12ths); 2026 LTI grant pro-rated at 8/12ths of $6,000,000 target value; two sign-on RSU grants of $4,000,000 each (vesting 100% on the 3rd anniversary).
     • Post-Closing CEO: Base salary increases to $1,200,000; annual target bonus of 150%; annual LTI target value of $7,200,000 (expected 60% PRSUs / 40% RSUs).

2. Will Stengel – Transition to Standalone Industrial Business (Motion)

   • Continues as Chairman and CEO of GPC until closing.
   • Will become Chairman and CEO of Motion (the standalone Industrial business) following the separation.

3. Bert Nappier – EVP, COO and CFO of GPC

   • Appointed Chief Operating Officer in addition to CFO, effective September 6, 2026.
   • Base salary increased to $800,000; 2026 target bonus set to 100% (pro-rated); 2027 LTI target set at $2,500,000.

4. James Howe – President and COO of Motion

   • Appointed Chief Operating Officer in addition to President of Motion, effective September 6, 2026.
   • Base salary increased to $750,000; 2026 target bonus set to 100% (pro-rated); 2027 LTI target set at $2,300,000.

Strategic Implications

This filing provides leadership clarity for both post-separation entities ahead of scheduled Investor Days on December 8, 2026 (GPC Automotive) and December 9, 2026 (Motion Industrial).