2027 TIME Dealer of the Year Nominee Michael Smith Michael Smith is one of a select group of 47 dealer nominees from across the country who will be honored at the 110th annual National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Show in Orlando, Florida, on Feb. 19, 2027. The TIME Dealer of the Year award is one of the automobile industry’s most prestigious and highly coveted honors. The award recognizes the nation’s most successful auto dealers who also demonstrate a long-standing commitment to community service. Smith was chosen to represent the New Car Dealers of Utah in the national competition — one of only 47 auto dealers nominated for the 58th annual award from more than 20,000 nationwide. “This nomination is an incredible honor, and I am grateful to represent our employees, customers, family and Utah’s automotive community,” Smith said. “Our success has always been a shared effort built on hard work, strong relationships and a commitment to treating people the right way.” Smith has spent 30 years building his career at Doug Smith Dealerships. During that time, he has worked in every dealership department and gained experience across multiple stores. He has led the organization’s six dealerships for more than five years. “Working throughout the dealership gave me an appreciation for every person and department involved in serving a customer,” Smith said. “Each position contributes to the success of the organization, and understanding those roles has made me a better leader.” Smith represents the second generation of his family in the automotive business. His father, Doug Smith, founded Doug Smith Chrysler Plymouth in 1979. Today, Michael and his four brothers — Bryan, Tom, Dave and Spencer — each hold an ownership interest in the organization. “I have been fortunate to grow within a family business that provided tremendous opportunities,” Smith said. “My responsibility has been to work hard, maximize those opportunities and help ensure that the company continues creating opportunities for others.” Under Smith’s leadership, the organization has expanded by acquiring three dealerships and adding two open-point locations. The growth has increased the company’s reach while preserving the values established by its founder. “Our growth has never changed the principle at the center of our business,” Smith said. “Our mission is to provide outstanding service by treating our employees and customers the way we would like to be treated.” The organization employs 320 people and reported 20% year-over-year staff growth from 2025 to 2026. Eighty employees have worked for the company for at least six years, including 70 with more than a decade of service and 20 with more than 20 years. “Our longtime employees provide continuity, experience and a deep understanding of the communities we serve,” Smith said. “Their commitment has helped shape our culture and allowed generations of customers to build lasting relationships with our dealerships.” Employee benefits include healthcare coverage, employer contributions to health savings accounts, a 401(k) matching program and access to a college education at no charge. Smith considers education and career development essential to helping employees build greater stability for themselves and their families. “Removing the financial barrier to a college education gives employees the ability to pursue goals that may have once felt out of reach,” Smith said. “When employees grow personally 6 UTAH AUTO DEALER
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