U.S. — Cox Automotive has honored Rita Case with the prestigious 2026 Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award, recognizing her decades of leadership, innovation, and influence across the automotive sector. The award celebrates individuals who have made lasting contributions to the industry while helping shape its future.
For professionals and consumers alike, recognitions like this reflect the evolving leadership driving automotive progress.
The Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award was established to honor outstanding female leaders whose work has significantly impacted the automotive landscape.
Receiving this honor places recipients among some of the most respected figures in automotive business.
Rita Case is widely recognized for her leadership within one of the nation’s most successful dealership organizations. Over the years, she has helped guide expansion strategies, elevate customer experience standards, and support community initiatives.
Strong leaders anticipate market shifts and position their organizations ahead of change.
Modern dealership success often stems from improving how customers purchase and service vehicles.
Efficient processes help organizations scale while maintaining quality.
Many industry leaders actively support philanthropic and workforce development programs.
These qualities continue shaping the future of automotive retail.
While awards focus on executives, the ripple effects often benefit everyday drivers.
Leadership at the top frequently translates into stronger businesses across the ecosystem.
The automotive industry has historically been male-dominated, but leadership diversity continues expanding — bringing fresh perspectives and stronger organizational performance.
Diverse leadership teams often generate more innovative solutions.
Inclusive environments attract skilled professionals.
Automotive customers are diverse — leadership that reflects this can better meet expectations.
Forward-thinking leadership helps businesses adapt to technological disruption.
This shift represents progress across the sector.
Modern dealership groups increasingly focus on technology, efficiency, and personalized experiences.
These improvements benefit the entire automotive ecosystem.
Recognition of influential leaders reinforces a broader expectation of professionalism across automotive businesses — from dealerships to independent repair facilities.
Inspired by industry leadership, Express Auto Care remains focused on delivering:
Because regardless of vehicle type or brand, drivers deserve dependable care.
As the automotive industry undergoes rapid transformation — from electrification to digital retail — strong leadership remains one of the most important drivers of progress.
Awards recognizing influential professionals highlight the people helping guide the industry through change while maintaining high standards for customers.
Rita Case receiving the 2026 Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award underscores the importance of visionary leadership in shaping the automotive sector.
For drivers, the takeaway is simple:
👉 An industry led by forward-thinking professionals is better equipped to deliver safer vehicles, improved service experiences, and smarter mobility solutions.
As automotive innovation accelerates, leadership will continue steering the journey ahead.