had a little bit more time to think about the bigger picture, I felt that I needed to learn more about government regulations. So, I became more involved with the association. I could see how critical the work they were doing was and, as issues were coming to light, how, together, we could make a big impact. I thought about all the people who have served before me — especially my father, Dennis Higginbotham; I learned from his example of service. I appreciate the work they did, and I thought it was my time: “I’ve got the bandwidth; let me serve.” What do you see as the biggest benefit of being a member of MADA? Networking has been a tremendous benefit to me personally. I’ve enjoyed getting to know our association President and the people within our Motor Vehicle Commission. They directly influence our business in such a positive way. Getting to know fellow dealers has been a huge benefit as well. Being around other dealers who love the business and realize what a benefit the dealer network is to the state of Mississippi is inspiring. There was a lot of work that went into helping to pass House Bill 401 this year. During the prior two or three years leading up to the bill’s passing, I was able to be a part of that work, as were many of our dealers. This win is so rewarding and gives such a great sense of accomplishment. I think about myself as a young dealer and not really appreciating what the state association did. It makes me happy to think about some of the young dealers who might not have been involved, but as they progress in their careers, they’re going to look back and say, “Wow, that was really important; let me get involved, serve and pay it forward for the next generation.” Our efforts benefit future generations. The MADA PAC benefits dealers. This year, our PAC has been very engaged in campaigns and supporting candidates that have been very helpful to our legislative efforts. We’re proudly working with Governor Tate Reeves and Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hoseman to get re‑elected, along with numerous State Senators and Representatives. We’ve made a huge impact by supporting those elected officials who support the franchise system and keep our businesses strong for the next generations. What are your goals as Chair? I want to ensure that MADA stays prepared to defend our franchise system. I also want to engage more dealers and the next generation and our association’s work. We need to preserve our dealerships for future generations. My teenage children are all interested in being car dealers; that’s why I get up in the morning and do what I do — to ensure I have a strong third generation. I’m so proud of the work the association has done to help me make that goal a reality, and I’d like that for all of our dealers. What help do you need from members to accomplish those goals? MADA membership is awesome. Anytime we ask them to get involved and make calls with their legislators, they always step up. So, I guess I would ask for just a little bit more support. I would like them to get their successors and the next generation involved in the association’s efforts. We have some ideas on how to make that happen this year, inviting them to spend time at the Capitol during the legislative session so they can see exactly what’s going on and the impact we can make. But we need members’ help to accomplish this goal. What do you plan to do to help members? I’m committed to doing the work, to doing everything that I possibly can to support our dealers and the franchise system. I’m so proud to be able to do it — I’m all in this year! Have you had any mentors? What did you learn from them? I would say it would be my father. He has been my mentor my whole life and always had confidence in me to come into the business and take on leadership roles. There was never a question about being a female or being young. I was a General Manager when I was 24 years old. He’s always been a big supporter and knew I could rise to the occasion. I am blessed to be able to work alongside my father, as well as my brother, Wallis Higginbotham. I understand the value of a family-run, multi-generational dealership business. When you mentor others, what are three pieces of advice you would share? 1. Make the right decisions for the long term, not just the short term. Any decision needs to benefit the customer first. The question I often ask myself is: Does this benefit the customer? And if that answer is yes, it’s going to help us in the long term. 2. Do everything possible to create a great working environment for your employees as well as a career path. If customers are happy and our employees have a great work environment, then everything else falls into place. 3. Support the community. Dealers do such a great job with this. Being a Mercedes dealer, I’ve competed against Tesla for years, and I really don’t see any involvement in the community from them. They’re a huge company and could do so much, but don’t. We’re just one Mercedes dealer, and I see the impact that I make and the things I do as well as my fellow dealers in the area. 7
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