Aug. 31, 2015—Pacific Elite Collision Centers announced Robert D. Benjamin as its new COO on Wednesday. Benjamin will oversee Pacific Elite’s 15 auto body repair facilities throughout Southern California.

“We are extremely excited that Robert has joined Pacific Elite as we continue to grow and develop our organization to effectively expand our operations,” says Shirin Hezar, CEO of Pacific Elite Collision Centers.

Benjamin has had a successful career leading and developing world class service and manufacturing operations. His experience includes leading the Tyco International Manufacturing and mergers and acquisitions teams, and The Ensign-Bickford Company’s Midwest business unit. His work leading a team in the development of a Lean Manufacturing operation at Ensign-Bickford won the Shingo prize for Lean Excellence in 2001.

In 2001, Benjamin joined Sterling Collision Centers where he progressed from director of the Michigan and Illinois regions to vice president of Nationwide Operations in 2009. He is currently active in the National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides program and Operation Provide Comfort.