Spencer Rakes is the Chief Executive Officer of Flagstop Car Wash, a Richmond, Virginia–based company that has proudly served its communities for more than 40 years. Under Spencer’s leadership, Flagstop is experiencing accelerated growth with a strong focus on operational excellence, guest experience, and meaningful local connection. 

Since joining Flagstop in 2024 and stepping into the CEO role in 2025, Spencer has led strategic initiatives that strengthen team culture, enhance financial and operational performance, and deepen the brand’s ties to the communities it serves. Flagstop’s commitment to local impact is reflected through partnerships with VCU Athletics, the University of Richmond, and the Richmond Flying Squirrels, as well as support for grassroots organizations. In the past 2 years, Flagstop has partnered with more than 70 local organizations through fundraising initiatives. 

Spencer brings more than 30 years of leadership experience across multi-unit operations, process improvement, and financial performance. Prior to Flagstop, he held senior leadership roles at Pilot Company, overseeing large, multi-state operations focused on customer experience, new store development, labor optimization, safety, and revenue growth. 

Known for his collaborative, people-first leadership style, Spencer excels at building high-performing teams and scalable systems that support sustainable growth. He believes that strong community connections and empowered teams are essential to long-term success—a philosophy that aligns directly with his presentation, “Close to Home: How Flagstop Invests in Young People, Clean Water & the Community.”