With more than 25 years of leadership experience across operations and sales, Ben Thames has built a reputation for steady leadership, collaboration, and a people-first approach. He currently serves as Senior Manager of Operations, supporting Vitu South Carolina and West Virginia businesses while overseeing the day-to-day Georgia operations. In this role, he works closely with his team to ensure you — our partner — experience reliable, efficient service across products and processes, while continually looking for ways to improve your overall title and reg experience.

Ben’s career began with a 26-year tenure managing Walmart store locations, where he developed a strong operational foundation and a deep appreciation for customer service. He entered the automotive industry in 2018 as an Account Executive selling EVR to dealers across south Georgia. His drive and adaptability led to expanded responsibilities across Georgia and Florida, and in 2021 he was named Regional Sales Manager. Over time, his scope continued to grow, culminating in leadership responsibility for EVR Operations and Sales across Florida, Georgia, Indiana, South Carolina, and West Virginia.

Known for his belief that strong relationships lead to better results, Ben credits much of his success to investing time in people and removing barriers that slow progress. “True fulfillment comes from investing in people and reducing friction,” he said. By staying closely connected to his team and learning from their experiences, he ensures customers, dealers, and lenders receive support and solutions that are both thoughtful and practical.

Serving on the Columbus State University Alumni Association Board of Directors since 2008, Ben has been involved in many events and projects, speaking at several graduation ceremonies and mentoring students through the Mentor Collective to help with time management and achieving goals. Ben has also chaired the Autism Speaks walk in Columbus. 

Though Ben and his family love to travel, they’ve spent the past 21 years living just outside Columbus, Georgia, and are deeply rooted in the state. An Army brat, his father also retired in Georgia, and while his wife grew up in New England, she has no interest in returning to snowy winters. With parents nearby and a snowbird mother-in-law who stays part of the year, family is central to their lives. Their five children—ranging from high school to working professionals—make weekends a priority for games, sports, and time together, alongside friends and fraternity brothers.