How did you become a car dealer? Did you always aspire to work in the automotive industry?
I graduated from college in 1984 with a degree in finance working during school at night for UPS. I never had any aspirations of becoming a dealer until my dad, who owned a single-point Buick store, asked me several months before I graduated, “What are your plans for a job when you graduate?” I replied, “I have several offers from various defense contractors and thought I would pursue that.” He asked, “What about giving the car business a try?” I thought, why not? And that’s when I started my automotive career. 10 years later, I bought him out with the help of GM’s Motors Holding Division.
Do you have family members in the auto industry?
I do. I have my two sons, my daughter and my wife.
Describe your educational background; what did you study?
I have a bachelor’s degree in finance and also attended both the NADA Dealer School and GM’s Dealer School.
Are there specific individuals that have had a major impact on your career in the auto industry?
Absolutely! Richard Stricklen, president of Motor City Buick GMC and Motor City Lexus of Bakersfield, was so much so that my speech at CNCDA Dealer Day was devoted to him as my mentor.
What is the most rewarding part of your career?
When a team of people within our organization comes together on an idea or problem and takes it upon themselves to take care of the customer.
What do you think will be some of the dominant trends within the auto industry in the next 5-10 years?
Continued consolidation of rooftops with the continued new vehicle franchise system. EVs will become more prevalent due to the fact that some OEMs have overly committed to these. But I also think that hybrids will increase along with more fuel cell options as the infrastructure increases as well to support those.
Why did you become involved in a leadership role at CNCDA?
None of us can complain about what happens with new laws unless you donate your time to, at the very least, help protect and promote the franchise system.
If you look back at your career in the auto industry, what would be three things that you have learned, that you would pass along to a younger member within the industry?
- Always hire people who are smarter than you.
- Manage by metrics and never be afraid to admit you were wrong.
- Always be humble, smile more and talk less.
Describe your all-time favorite vehicle. What do you drive today?
My favorite vehicle is the vehicle that’s leaving the dealership with another happy customer with a cashable contract. I drive a variety of vehicles, from a Chevy Blazer EV, Cadillac Escalade and Corvette Z06. But my favorite would be our 45’ Newell RV when going on cross-country trips with my wife.
What is your favorite way to spend your free time?
I love playing golf and pickleball, traveling, boating, skiing and traveling in our RV.
