How did you get started in the automotive industry and were there any formative experiences that guided you to where you are today? As a young boy, I spent time every summer going to work with my dad at the dealership. I would help out by cutting grass, washing cars and what have you. I learned a lot about the car business during those times. When I got out of college, my dad asked, “Would you like to start working with me? You can make a good living for yourself in the car business and carry on a family legacy.” I said, “Absolutely! Let’s give it a shot.” Now, 40 years later, I’m sitting here talking to you. I’ve held almost every position there is in the company. My first job out of college was as a service advisor. I remember asking my dad, “What am I going to make here?” He answered, “I’m going to pay you in two coins: the money coin and the knowledge coin.” He went on to explain that I would be earning $5.00 an hour for 40 hours a week. When I did the math, I pushed back, “That’s only $200 a week! I will be the lowest-paid college graduate in America.” My father wisely replied, “Son, you’re going to be living with your grandparents for a while to take care of your room and board, so money is not an issue. But also, I’m going to pay you with a knowledge coin and that’s going to be worth a whole lot more down the road. Even though you can’t appreciate it right now.” My dad was right. I had been serving as chairman of the Hunter Automotive Group for almost four years. Tom took over running the day-to-day business, and my role changed to chief people officer (CPO). I’m now the face of the company. I do all our TV ads and radio commercials and, for lack of better words, I “shake hands and kiss babies.” What inspired you to take on the role of NCADA chairman, and what aspects of your background prepared you for this leadership position? I enjoy giving back, helping people and helping businesses. I’m involved in four nonprofit boards in Henderson County and just came off a two-year stint as the chairman of our Chamber of Commerce. I was on the NCADA board for two terms and had rotated off. I was then asked if I would like to be considered for the NCADA chair. I said, “Absolutely!” Helping dealers protect franchise laws and lobbying for the industry in Raleigh as well as in D.C. are things that I like to do, and since I am serving as my company’s CPO, I had the time to do it. Having served on the board, I had the opportunity to learn from previous chairs and to be plugged into the NCADA network. By the time I assumed the role of chairman, I understood how the system works, where possible problems could arise and what needed to be done proactively to protect the franchise laws in our state. North Carolina tends to be the trade association that moves first when it comes to protecting franchise law. It is important that our dealer body stays engaged and is vocal about changes on the horizon. Their input is important. What do you see as the most significant challenges facing new car dealers today? OEMs that want to sell directly to the consumer are our most significant GETTING TO KNOW 2024‑2025 NCADA CHAIRMAN RANDY HUNTER 8
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