Pub. 1 2019 Issue 1

What do you think will be some of the dominant trends within the auto industry in the next 5-10 years? I’ve seen the rise of technology and social media impact car sales. Our customers come into our dealer- ship much more well researched, if you will, than ever before. But, they still have questions that they need answers to. Car sales is a relationship business. It still involves people and people still worry when they make a big purchase, like a car. They want to touch it, feel it and have someone they trust talk to them about the purchase they are about to make – it’s not a t-shirt that they can order off the internet from some website. Outside of a house, a car is one of the big- gest purchases we make, and people need feedback. What is the biggest importance of being a CFADA member, what makes it beneficial? There’s a lot of really good reasons to be part of something like CFADA, but for me, as a standalone dealership, it’s about the networking opportunities. There’s something to be said about not learning every single thing from your own mistakes! When there are other dealers who you can reach out to for advice, insight and just good ideas, it makes a big difference. And I think when there’s a collective group, like CFADA, the members are willing to share their experiences, because when one dealer thrives, I think we all thrive. What inspired you to serve as a leader within the association? I missed a meeting and got voted in! No, seriously, I think we all have a responsibility to give back to the industry that we are a part of. In looking back at this year, what stands out for you? Are there any accomplishments that you are especially proud of? My biggest accomplishment is getting through it. I was joking the other day, and said to someone in the association that I plan on being a better past chair than chair. I can now give advice, because I’ve been there! I think in all reality, part of being on the board of an association, like CFADA, is that you help chalk up one more year up of doing what you do – provide services, support and a cohesive voice. Every year makes us better and stronger as an organization, and that’s an accomplishment I am proud of. Are you involved in any civic or charitable organizations? I ’ve been involved with Rotary Club for 30 years. It’s been rewarding for me. We have been building wheel chair ramps in our community, and we build a couple per month. It gets me outside, and I get to use my craftsman skills. If you look back at your career and life, what would be three things that you have learned, that you would pass onto a younger member within the auto industry? First, being a car dealer is a lifestyle. It’s a 24-hour a day job, seven days a week. We’re a small business, so we have all the responsibilities that come with that. We’re also a visible business, so we need to be mindful of our com- munity as well. We need to be a good corporate citizen, if you will. And, second, be truthful. That’s just a good thing. And finally, be there. Be on time, do the job, and be focused while being there. People will know if you are half- there. Not only is it offensive to everyone, but you miss a lot of what’s going on around you. If you could describe the best day in this business, what would it look like? There would be a line in the service department, a line at the parts counter and a line to buy car! Having said that, the best days are those days when we do what we do: sell cars. Describe your all-time favorite vehicle (it can be one you’ve owned, or something on your wish list). What are you driving today? My all-time favorite car is a 1969 Dodge 440 Charger. It was all black, with automatic windows. I should have kept that car! These days I drive a Grand Cherokee Overland, which in comparison to the Charger is an old man’s car! Tell us about your family. My wife, Karen and I have been married 32 years. We have a daughter, who is a lawyer, and a son, who is in law school. We’re proud of them. What is your favorite way to spend your free time? Any unusual hobbies? I like to be outside. My wife and I like to be active and moving. We walk a lot, and I like to people watch. Issue 1 2019 7 CFADA.ORG