Avis Budget Group, Inc. today announced the planned departure of President and Chief Executive Officer Larry De Shon after a 13-year career with the company, Avis Budget announced today. De Shon will remain in his current positions until his successor has been named and will continue to be employed by the Company until the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition. 

The Board has formed a CEO search committee led by Director Lynn Krominga, chair of the Corporate Governance Committee.

Leonard S. Coleman, chairman of the board, stated: “On behalf of the Board and the entire team, I’d like to thank Larry for the many contributions he has made to Avis Budget Group since he joined the Company in 2006, and for his exceptional leadership as CEO for the last four years. Larry has played an instrumental role in positioning Avis Budget for the future of mobility, while navigating through unprecedented industry challenges. Together with our outstanding management team, Larry has built a strong foundation for growth and continued success. We are pleased that we will continue to have access to Larry’s insights.”

“Throughout all of my years with Avis Budget Group, I have been continuously inspired by the talent, performance and dedication of my colleagues across the globe and their steadfast commitment to the Company’s mission of delivering excellent service and innovative solutions for our customers,” said Larry De Shon. “I appreciate the support of the Board, my management team, and our employees during my time as CEO, and I am confident Avis Budget Group is well positioned to continue building on its momentum and driving growth for years to come.”

Before becoming president and CEO, De Shon was Avis Budget Group’s president, international and had previously overseen Avis Budget's Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and U.S. operations. Prior to joining Avis Budget, he had a 28-year career at United Airlines.

During his leadership tenure, De Shon oversaw Avis Budget Group’s technology initiatives such as piloting the company’s Mobility Lab in Kansas City and the connection of the company’s entire global fleet by 2020.

De Shon delivered the keynote address at the 2011 International Car Rental Show.