New-vehicle dealers association leader announces retirement

After 27 years of dedicated leadership, Marlene Lynch-Petrylak announced her retirement as executive director of the Delaware Automobile and Truck Dealers’ Association.

Since 1998, Lynch-Petrylak has been at the helm of the statewide organization, guiding Delaware’s franchised new-car and truck dealers through years of growth, change and industry challenges. With two business degrees and more than 22 years of prior administrative and management experience across multiple sectors — and encouragement from her husband, an avid car enthusiast, she embraced the opportunity to take on new challenges in the automotive industry.

“I am most proud of the fact that for the last 27 years, I have solely and successfully managed a multifaceted operation that has stood the test of time,” Lynch-Petrylak said. “Whether it was budget and finance, membership services, event planning or countless other functions, DATDA has been my passion and my responsibility. It has truly been an honor.”

During her tenure, Lynch-Petrylak guided Delaware’s dealer community through some of its most challenging times, including the recession of 2007-09 and the COVID-19 pandemic. Both events tested the resilience of Delaware’s largely family-owned dealerships. “By 2009, many dealerships felt the brunt of the recession’s impact. Sadly, some lost their franchises,” she said. “As someone who innately senses the stress of others, I felt the weight of each and every one of them.”

Under her leadership, DATDA also adapted to major shifts in the industry, from technological advances to regulatory pushes for electric and alternative-fuel vehicles. “Dealers want to sell vehicles their customers want, need and can afford,” she said. “A new vehicle is a major household expenditure, and respecting consumer choice is essential.”

She said what she valued most were the relationships built over the years. “The most rewarding part has been getting to know all of our dealers across the state and working with 12 different DATDA presidents,” Lynch-Petrylak said. “It’s been wonderful to see the next generation of family members — who were in high school or college when I first started — now running their family businesses.”

Her retirement, she admits, is bittersweet. “I will miss working with our dealer members, associate vendors, state and congressional offices, the National Automobile Dealers Association and so many others. These relationships made my career fulfilling.”

DATDA President Chip Sheridan praised Lynch-Petrylak’s contributions. “Marlene has been the heart and soul of DATDA for nearly three decades. Her tireless commitment, steady leadership and ability to navigate challenges with grace have left an indelible mark on our organization and our industry,” he said. “On behalf of Delaware’s dealers, we thank her for her service and wish her all the best in this next chapter.”

Lynch-Petrylak plans to enjoy time with her husband, who is already retired, and embrace the next journey. “Metaphorically, I will be driving off into the sunset of my golden years,” she said. “We’re looking forward to traveling, spending more time with family and friends, and living our best lives.”

As DATDA prepares for its next era of leadership, Lynch-Petrylak leaves behind a legacy of strength, resilience and dedication to Delaware’s dealer community.