Pub. 1 2019-2020 Issue 3

at the bottom, and I worked my way through different departments in our dealer- ships. He then gave me an opportunity and suggested I move out to another part of the country to work for a few of his dealer friends to make sure that I wanted to be in the business and to experience it from a different perspec- tive than our own. This total experience confirmed for me that I wanted to continue and make the automobile business my career. Describe your educational background. What did you study? I went to a private school in Volusia Co. After high school, I attended our local com- munity college for finance and then on to attend the NADA Dealer Candidate Academy. After graduating, I have participated in various training programs offered by the manufacturers about the automotive industry. Are there any specific individuals who had a major impact on your career? How? My father was my biggest role model growing up, but also, I have worked firsthand with some of the best managers in the industry. A lot of peo- ple helped shape and teach me the business, and I am still learning. What is the most rewarding part of your career? The most rewarding part of my career is doing what I love to do and working together with our team to make a posi- tive impact on our community. I still love to see the smiles on people’s faces when they tell me how much they appreciate our dealership’s involvement in the community, and our customer survey scores reflect that. How has the automotive industry changed in the last five years? The most significant change I think has been the consumer transition from passenger cars to light-duty trucks, crossovers and SUVs. Also, the mass migration to digital advertising and social media has been a significant change. We are truly living in an infor- mation-seeking society. What do you think will be some of the dominant trends within the automotive industry in the next 5-10 years? I think some trends will be more EV ve- hicles, as sales have trended up in that segment. Also, I think we may eventu- ally see more noncommissioned sales salespeople. Something like a product specialist. Possibly more online pur- chases with product demonstrations at home or office and no-touch deliv - eries. The way consumers purchase vehicles in the next 5 to 10 years will undoubtedly evolve and change. What have been some of the major challenges in creating a balance in customer branch and digital-based transactions? Hiring, training and maintaining em- ployees is one of the biggest chal- lenges most dealers are facing now. Another challenge is to give the online shopper and the shoppers who visit the dealership a seamless shopping and purchase experience. What is the biggest impact of being a CFADA member? What makes it beneficial? I was honored when I was asked to be on the CFADA board. It is great to have these professionals as a resource when I have a need or question about our business. After my first meeting, I realized this was a great organization to be involved with and support. This group of dealers and GMs are true leaders in their communities, and they strive to make a difference in the auto- motive industry in Central Florida. Are you involved in any civic or charitable organizations? Yes! Community service has always been a big part of my family’s business tradition. I am currently involved with Daytona Hyundai is proud to be a part of the CFADA and to work with them to further their efforts with charitable causes. For the last 10 years, CFADA has supported the mission of the local food bank, Second Harvest, and Glenn Ritchey, Jr., got to present the $5,000 check! continued from page 9 10 Pub Yr 1 2019-2020 | Issue 3