Looking for the best limousine driver in the United States?
Look no further than Newport where you will find Frank Johnson, a driver with Newport-based Executive Transport. He was named the 2016 Limousine & Sedan Chauffeur of the Year by the Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association (TLPA).
Johnson, a retired Marine who is also an active minister, has been a chauffeur for 28 years. He was selected from among thousands of drivers for his devotion to customer service, according to an announcement from the TLPA.
“Frank exemplifies everything a chauffeur should be,” said TLPA CEO Alfred LaGasse. “His commitment to safety and service sets the pace for his profession. We are honored to officially recognize him.”
Johnson, Newport born and bred, came to the limousine industry in 1988 after serving four years in the Marine Corps and working 10 years in a brewery. He intended to work as a driver part time but soon “found great enjoyment” in the job and turned it into a career. In his time behind the wheel, he has driven business leaders, family members of important clients, and even the occasional celebrity. He once chauffeured television personality James Brown of The NFL Today show, and the two became friends after discovering shared interests. They still keep in touch by text message.
“The best part of my job is the many people I get to meet, from your everyday business executive to famous celebrities,” Johnson said. “Many of these passengers have become not just drive-time friends, but true friends. There is one client who requests me each time. It makes me proud and warms my heart when I see the look on her face when I am the one who arrives to pick her up. It’s those small rewards of appreciation from my customers that make my job that much more enjoyable.”
Johnson was the subject of much praise from customers, who hailed his attentiveness and diligence on the road. Now, after nearly three decades of impeccable service, Johnson will accept his award in front of more than 1,000 industry professionals at the TLPA’s 98th Annual Convention & Trade Show on Nov. 2 at the Hyatt Regency / Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, Arizona.
-Staff report
Photo: Frank Johnson (provided)