KPA, a long-standing provider in risk management and compliance software, has announced a significant strategic shift, returning to its roots as a dedicated automotive-focused organization. The move marks a “doubling down” on the sector that built the company’s reputation, promising dealerships and auto-adjacent businesses deeper specialization, accelerated product innovation, and stronger support in an increasingly complex regulatory environment.
Why Now?
The realignment comes as the automotive retail industry faces mounting pressure from a converging set of risks—ranging from stringent OSHA safety guidelines and complex advertising laws to high-stakes cybersecurity regulations. By narrowing its operational focus solely to automotive, KPA aims to provide more agile and targeted solutions to its client base, which already includes 40 of the top 50 dealer groups in the U.S.
“As a focused automotive organization, KPA is doubling down on helping automotive businesses operate more effectively and profitably,” said Wayne Curtis, who has been appointed as KPA’s new CEO. “After two decades working side by side with dealership teams, I’ve seen firsthand how specialized expertise and smart solutions help organizations navigate regulatory challenges.”
This restructuring allows KPA to channel its resources into three key areas:
- Industry-Standard Compliance Software: Continuing to refine tools that help organizations protect their businesses and eliminate risks.
- Deepened Industry Expertise: Leveraging an award-winning library of over 400 training courses to cover critical areas across sales, service, and operations.
- Accelerated Product Development: Creating solutions custom-built for the specific workflows and pain points of dealerships, collision centers, and marine, truck, and RV dealers.
Other Changes at KPA
Working alongside Curtis will be Adam Crowell, who has been elevated to Chief Legal & Strategy Officer.
“KPA makes it easier for automotive dealerships, collision shops, and other auto-focused businesses to stay compliant by tailored technology and proactive guidance,” said Crowell. “As we simplify the complex, dealers can focus on selling and servicing vehicles with confidence.”
The strategic pivot follows the spinoff of Novara, a separate software company launched to handle Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) needs for hazardous industries outside of automotive. This separation allows KPA to shed broader industrial obligations and focus its 150 in-house compliance consultants entirely on the unique needs of the auto sector.
KPA is hoping this realignment will help create a better relationship with dealerships, providing them a partner that is fully immersed in the specific language, laws, and logistics of selling and servicing vehicles. As regulatory scrutiny intensifies, KPA’s renewed focus offers a resource for businesses looking to navigate compliance not just as a legal necessity, but as a pillar of operational excellence.
KPA will be showcasing its sharpened automotive focus at the upcoming NADA 2026 show in Las Vegas this February.
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