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Sean Garber, a distinguished entrepreneur is Chaiman of the Board of Byrider Franchising Partners and owner of six Byrider locations across Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee, has been reappointed by Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear to serve on the Unemployment Insurance Commission. This marks Mr. Garber’s second term on the commission, which will extend until October 2028.
A Vital Role in Unemployment Insurance Appeals
The Unemployment Insurance Commission serves as an appeals board responsible for reviewing and deciding cases related to unemployment insurance determinations made by the primary administrative agency. Mr. Garber’s responsibilities will include overseeing key tasks related to the commission’s operations and ensuring fair and just resolutions for both claimants and employers. His leadership and expertise in business are expected to be instrumental in maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the appeals process.
A History of Government and Business Leadership
This is not Mr. Garber’s first time working in government. In addition to his current appointment, he has previously held other governmental positions, bringing a wealth of experience to the commission. Reflecting on his reappointment, Garber stated:
“I am honored to continue serving on the Unemployment Insurance Commission. Ensuring a fair and efficient appeals process is vital for both employees and employers, and I look forward to contributing to this important work.”
Garber’s extensive experience in business, spanning multiple industries, further underscores his suitability for this role. His career began in the metals recycling industry with OmniSource Corp, a multibillion-dollar company and the largest privately held scrap metal business in the country at the time. In 1996, he transitioned to Industrial Services of America, a publicly traded company, where he served as President, COO, and Board Director.
After leaving ISA in 2000, Garber purchased a company in the apparel industry, taking it public by 2003. He later ventured into the mortgage sector, successfully building and licensing a company to operate in multiple states, as well as establishing a title company. He sold the mortgage business in December 2006.
Creating a Legacy in Recycling and Automotive Industries
In 2005, Garber invested in Algar, Inc., a small salvage yard, which he expanded by integrating multiple facilities and sales offices to serve all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Under his leadership, Algar evolved into a “hybrid recycling company,” comprising a full-service auto parts business, a self-serve auto parts division, and a comprehensive scrap metal buying and processing unit—one of the only businesses in the country to operate all three.
Expanding the Byrider Franchise
Garber’s entrepreneurial journey continued with the founding of Garber Ventures in 2022, which became a Byrider franchisee, operating six stores across Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Florida. His influence in the Byrider network deepened in 2024 when he, along with fellow franchisees, acquired the Byrider Franchisor Corporation, where he now serves as Chairman of the Board.
A Philosophy for Success
As a serial entrepreneur, Garber attributes his success to what he calls the “Four Corners of the Foundation”:
- Surround yourself with good people.
- Listen to your customers—both internal and external.
- Check your ego at the door.
- Check your greed at the door.
Community Involvement and Industry Leadership
Beyond business, Garber is deeply committed to industry and community engagement. He was a founding member of the Louisville Young Entrepreneur Organization and has served on various boards, including ClearPath Mutual Insurance, Harford Mutual Insurance and the National Board for PRP. Additionally, he is a Commissioner on the Unemployment Insurance Commission, a member of Kentucky Post Secondary Education Council and actively participates in organizations such as the Institute of Scrap and Recycling Industry and the Automotive Recycling Association.