In a time of change and evolving challenges within the automotive industry, CNCDA’s NextGen group stands as a beacon for the future of California’s franchised new car and truck dealerships. This dynamic group of engaged leaders is not just preparing for the future — they’re actively shaping it. Who Is NextGen? NextGen members at CNCDA are defined as individuals holding managerial positions at franchised new car and truck dealerships. Regardless of age or family relationships, these future leaders are dedicated to carrying forward the legacy of their predecessors while innovating and adapting to the demands of tomorrow. Mission and Vision NextGen’s mission is to empower, encourage and develop future dealership leaders through engagement, education and community. The group is committed to strengthening a community of leaders prepared to steer California’s automotive industry into the future. Recent Successes: A Year of Growth and Achievement The past year has been a testament to the NextGen group’s strength and the important role they play statewide. This past March, CNCDA’s Dealer Day gathered 20 NextGen dealers. This was a huge milestone as the group’s goal was to hopefully get just a handful to attend. These 20 first-time Dealer Day attendees networked and engaged with the broader dealership community, marking a crucial step in their development as leaders. At the same time, their attendance marked a SIGNIFICANT boost to our association’s advocacy efforts. “I’m incredibly proud of California’s NextGen accomplishments this year. Our NextGen members made up roughly 20% of the total dealers at CNCDA’s 2024 Dealer Day, far surpassing the goals we set. There is a clear need and desire for engagement by the NextGen members we serve.” — Kailey Hatfield, Hatfield Buick GMC The momentum continued last month with the group’s Second Annual NextGen Retreat, held in Paso Robles. This retreat brought together both the Steering Committee and invited NextGen members for a few days of education, networking and strategizing. The event also saw a larger attendance than initially anticipated. The retreat featured a variety of speakers who are experts in their fields. Kenton Stanhope, CNCDA’s Director of Government Affairs, highlighted the importance of grassroots activism in the current political climate. Rinaldi Halim, Sierra Automotive Group, Open Road Capital and CNCDA board member, shared invaluable insights from his life journey and how he’s accrued his success in the automotive industry. Members also learned the importance of succession planning, with Jan Slania from Federated Insurance offering essential advice on keeping dealerships thriving across generations. In addition to these keynotes, the retreat provided a platform for members to brainstorm, troubleshoot and share CNCDA’s NextGen SHAPING THE FUTURE OF CALIFORNIA’S DEALERSHIP LEADERS By Autumn Heacox, Director of Communications & Marketing, CNCDA 16 California New Car Dealer Quarterly
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