Lee Edwards, president of Edwards Chevrolet, has been nominated for the 2026 TIME Dealer of the Year award — one of the automotive industry’s most prestigious honors. The nomination was announced on Wednesday by TIME.
Edwards is one of 47 nominees nationwide and will be recognized during the 109th annual National Automobile Dealers Association Show in Las Vegas on Feb. 5, 2026.
Edwards represents the Automobile Dealers Association of Alabama, Inc. in the national competition. The award highlights dealership excellence and community service across the country.
Edwards has spent nearly 40 years in the family business, which was founded in 1916. Today, he oversees operations employing more than 150 people in Birmingham.
“I grew up working every summer at the dealership, from washing cars to stocking parts,” Edwards said. “Those experiences gave me a deep respect for every job in the business and a commitment to making sure our employees always feel valued.”
Edwards has expanded the dealership with modernization projects and new revenue streams, including one of the largest GM parts operations in the Southeast and a commercial truck division that serves local businesses.
“For us, employee wellness begins with job satisfaction—meaningful work, growth opportunities, strong benefits, and a culture you’re proud of,” Edwards said.
The dealership’s employee giving and matching programs contribute $50,000–$75,000 annually to local charities. The dealership has also supported Children’s Hospital of Alabama for more than two decades, including a campaign to replace ECMO machines that save children’s lives.
Edwards also highlighted how the team adapted during a 2024 cybersecurity outage by reverting to paper systems and trusting customers to return. “It reminded us how resourceful and loyal our team and community are,” he said.
“The TIME Dealer of the Year award honors automotive dealers who set the standard for excellence and community impact,” said Jessica Sibley, CEO of TIME.
“These nominees embody the spirit of leadership and service, making a lasting impact both in their dealerships and beyond,” said Doug Timmerman, president of Dealer Financial Services at Ally Financial.
Edwards was nominated by the state association. He and his wife, Jenny, have two children who now work in the family business as part of the fourth generation of leadership.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
