Donald Osborne, CEO of the Audrain Group in Newport, Rhode Island, is stepping down from his position effective November 1, 2024.
Osborne, who has led the organization for five years, will transition to a new role as Consulting Director, according to a press release from Audrain Automobile Museum.
In his new capacity, Osborne will continue to be a public-facing representative for Audrain, participating in video projects and events such as the annual Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week. He will also contribute to collection acquisition, restoration, and presentation efforts.
Nicholas Schorsch, co-founder and chairman of the Audrain Automobile Museum, praised Osborne’s contributions to the organization in the press release.
“The Board and I appreciate Donald’s knowledge and expertise in the automotive and car collecting world,” Schorsch said. “Having him as part of our team was instrumental in the growth of our organization and in building the expansive team that Audrain currently has.”
Osborne joined the Audrain organization in December 2019, overseeing the group’s non-profit and for-profit automotive and lifestyle initiatives. His responsibilities included managing branding, marketing, communication, and member engagement strategies for the Audrain Automobile Museum, the Audrain Newport Concours d’Elegance & Motor Week, and the expansion of Audrain Motorsport.
Reflecting on his tenure, Osborne expressed satisfaction with his accomplishments at Audrain.
“It has been gratifying to have worked in my role as CEO, being able to combine so much of my background and various passions in helping to create so many memorable automotive experiences,” Osborne said.
He added, “Being a part of the team that has brought the Audrain Automobile Museum to its tenth anniversary and five editions of the Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week has been amazing.”
The transition plan involves dividing Osborne’s former duties between two long-term Audrain executives. Benjamin Mercer will serve as Chief Operating Officer of the Audrain Group, while Nic Waller will assume the role of President of the Audrain Automobile Museum, Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week, and Audrain Motorsport entities.
Schorsch emphasized the organization’s commitment to its mission under the new leadership structure.
“Donald truly executed our mission of preserving, celebrating, and sharing automotive history through his work, passions, and guidance,” Schorsch said. “We are excited to continue our partnership with Donald and look forward to future growth and success together.”
The Audrain Group’s flagship event, the Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week, will continue with Jay Leno as Chairman. Osborne will maintain his involvement in this and other Audrain initiatives, including the “Mansions & Motorcars with Jay Leno” video series.
Osborne expressed optimism about his ongoing relationship with Audrain.
“I look forward to my continued association with the Audrain organization in my new role and to seeing how it continues on the momentum built up across all its activities,” he said.
The leadership change comes as Audrain approaches significant milestones, including the tenth anniversary of the Audrain Automobile Museum and the completion of five editions of the Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week.
