John Blanton
About John Blanton
John Blanton serves as the Vice President and Associate General Counsel at Advance Auto Parts, where he manages litigation and oversees legal matters related to acquisitions and intellectual property. He has a background in real estate law and holds a JD from William & Mary Law School and a BA in Communications from Virginia Tech.
Current Role at Advance Auto Parts
John Blanton serves as the Vice President and Associate General Counsel at Advance Auto Parts, a position he has held since 2019. In this role, he manages litigation for the company, focusing on disputes related to lease defaults and property damage. He also leads legal efforts in significant trademark and intellectual property acquisitions, ensuring that these transactions include license back agreements. Additionally, he acts as a legal representative on Advance Auto Parts' internal Strategy Board of Directors, where he supports enterprise-related projects that involve growth and change.
Previous Experience at Advance Auto Parts
Before his current position, John Blanton worked at Advance Auto Parts in various legal roles. He served as Senior Counsel for Real Estate from 2010 to 2013, where he focused on real estate matters. Following this, he held the position of Director, Corporate and Securities Counsel from 2013 to 2019. In this capacity, he managed corporate legal matters and provided counsel on securities issues. His extensive experience within the company has contributed to his current leadership role.
Education and Legal Qualifications
John Blanton earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications with a concentration in architecture from Virginia Tech, where he studied from 1988 to 1994. He later attended William & Mary Law School, obtaining his Juris Doctor degree from 1997 to 2000. His educational background has equipped him with the skills necessary for his legal career and roles in corporate governance.
Involvement in Global Initiatives
John Blanton has played a significant role in the organization and establishment of a global capability center limited liability partnership in India. This initiative reflects his involvement in strategic planning and expansion efforts for Advance Auto Parts, showcasing his commitment to the company's growth on an international scale.
Legal Expertise and Responsibilities
In his capacity as Vice President and Associate General Counsel, John Blanton manages various legal responsibilities at Advance Auto Parts. He serves as the primary counsel for the Carquest Independent team, overseeing acquisitions, divestitures, and strategic planning. His expertise in litigation, corporate law, and intellectual property is critical to the company's legal strategy and operations.