University of Arizona Eller College of Management Announces Executive of the Year

The University of Arizona Eller College of Management is pleased to announce Ernie Garcia as its 2025 Executive of the Year. Garcia is the co-founder of Carvana (NYSE: CVNA) and has served as president and chief executive officer of the organization since the company’s inception in 2012. 

The Executive of the Year award recognizes an executive whose leadership has not only driven their organization to new heights but has also set a remarkable example in their industry. Garcia has a proven ability to inspire teams, foster growth, and introduce forward-thinking strategies that reshape the industry landscape. 

“We are honored to welcome Ernie Garcia as our 2025 Executive of the Year,” says Karthik Kannan, dean and Halle Chair in Leadership of the Eller College of Management. “His innovative thinking, perseverance, determination and success make him an admirable individual to hold this title.”

Before founding Carvana, Garcia held various roles at the DriveTime Automotive Group, Inc., including managing director of corporate finance, vice president and treasurer, and director of quantitative analytics. In 2016, he was named EY Entrepreneur of the Year in the Mountain Desert region for the consumer technology category. Garcia’s influence extends beyond business success to meaningful contributions to both the local community and across the country.

“I’m grateful to accept this award on behalf of the Carvana team. Our progress and success has only been made possible through the tireless effort and absolute dedication they have shown in good times and bad as we have built this business together,” says Garcia. “Everything worth doing is hard, and the Carvana team knows how to do the hard things that are necessary to deliver truly differentiated customer experiences.”

The Eller College is proud to celebrate the achievements of this year’s Executive of the Year, whose work continues to set a high standard for leadership and impact. “Ernie has shown extraordinary leadership and a forward-thinking vision that has reshaped the way consumers purchase cars industry-wide,” says Anastasiya Ghosh, associate dean of partnerships in the Eller College of Management. “His vision, dedication and commitment to excellence are qualities that inspire both our students and future business leaders.” 

Garcia will be honored during a luncheon presented by the Eller College of Management on April 4. 

About Carvana: Carvana was founded with the mission to change the way people buy and sell cars. Since launching in 2013, Carvana has revolutionized automotive retail and delighted millions of customers with an offering that is fun, fast and fair. With Carvana, customers can find a car, get financing, trade-in and complete a purchase entirely online with the convenience of delivery or local pick-up as soon as the same day. Carvana’s unique offering is powered by its passionate team, differentiated national infrastructure and purpose-built technology. For more: carvana.com