Genuine Parts Co. (GPC) announced that its board of directors has appointed CEO Paul Donahue as chairman of the board.

Donahue has served as president and CEO of GPC since May 1, 2016. He will continue as CEO and, effective April 22, add the position of chairman.

“Paul is well-deserving of his new responsibilities as chairman of the board,” said Tom Gallagher, the former chairman of the board. “He has served the company in key executive roles since 2003, including the last three years as president and CEO, and is perfectly suited to lead the company and its board in the coming years.”

Donahue added: “It is a privilege and an honor to serve as chairman of the board of Genuine Parts Co. I want to thank the board for their confidence in my leadership and express my sincere gratitude to Tom, who served so admirably as chairman for the last 14 years. We are fortunate that Tom will continue to serve as a director on the GPC board.”