WHY BEING AN ACTIVE MEMBER MATTERS Third-generation dealer Bill Underriner understands what it takes to run a successful business. As the president/CEO of Underriner Motors in Billings, Montana, a MTADA board member and a former NADA chair, he has influenced the industry at local, state and national levels. As a young boy, Bill had no idea he’d end up in the automobile business. After graduating with a business degree from Kentucky State University, he had the opportunity to move to Billings and started working at Selover Buick. That was in 1984. Bill held many positions at the dealership and came to love the business. In 2001, Bill and his wife purchased the dealership and expanded to include the Honda, Hyundai and Volvo brands. They just celebrated 80 years in business. Running a business that spans decades requires adaptability, a willingness to learn and the ability to navigate change, especially those changes that come from Capitol Hill. We recently had a chance to sit down with Bill and discuss the importance of being an active association member, contributing to the NADA PAC and MONCAR, and what comes next. The following are excerpts from our conversation. Having served as the NADA chair and on the MTADA board, why is it important to you to play an active role in both associations? Our industry has a lot of regulations that come from the government, and they are not always business-friendly and create difficulties. MTADA is very good at getting involved when these issues arise. Each one of us plays a role in keeping the association strong, so that it can successfully continue to do this. We all need to work together. You need to be part of the solution. I believe we all want to make sure our franchise system is solid. We want to make sure that we are doing the right thing for our customers and for ourselves. All dealers need to be involved to ensure this happens. Attending events is a great way to participate. Go to the workshops and the convention. This year’s convention is in Poulson, and it’s something you won’t want to miss. Next, on a national level, go to the NADA convention. It’s being held in Las Vegas next year. There is so much you can learn about, many great speakers and amazing workshops on the floor. Additionally, many manufacturers come to this event and present their products and it’s a great place to interact with them. In short, attending MTADA and NADA events is a great way to get involved. An Interview with Bill Underriner 14 MONTANA AUTO DEALER
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