1) What motivates you to lead as a manager?
Being a lifelong "car guy" and being involved with car dealerships since 1980, my enthusiasm and passion for this business just come naturally. I enjoy what I do and I believe it's obvious to both my staff and my customers.
2) What are your common core values?
Integrity is foremost, followed by kindness. Being fair and honest in any business is vital to its success.
3) Describe how your management style is unique to you.
Well, being extroverted, I get involved, but my "A" personality is common in car sales, so I feel it's to my benefit to be fair, but firm.
4) Why is customer service important at an automotive dealership?
Customer service is the absolute key to success! As a dealership, we want to be a one-stop-shop for all of our customer's needs, maybe, even some non-automotive advice is shared at times. Here in the Virgin Islands, all customers are our friends and neighbors, so they need to be treated as such.
5) What are your personal hobbies and personal pursuits?
I love life, sunshine, the sea, anything on or around the water. I am fascinated by hummingbirds and have over 50 feeders in and around my property. I hand-make the nectar, buying sugar by the 25-pound bag. I plan on exploring all of the islands in the Caribbean before my time is up. I also own too many vehicles and have several "project" cars.
6) Offer one piece of advice to people about the automotive industry.
Research before you buy, service is vital to every vehicle, follow the manufacturer's recommended guideline intervals.
7) What's your favorite vehicle ever made, and why?
The iconic Ford Mustang, pure American Muscle. There are better, faster, more expensive sports cars and such. But almost, anyone can own this part of American automotive history. And oh, the rumble!
8) How many years do you have in the automotive industry?
I've been in the industry since 1980, so 40 years now. I started washing cars at Toyota Auto Sales in Miami and have spent time at every level since then.
9) How many team members do you manage?
I have three veteran sales associates: Tarah, David, Tyrone, and my lot attendant, Terry.
10) When should you service a vehicle after making a new purchase?
Depending on the mileage, every three to six months. Service varies in different regions; the tropics are considered "harsh" conditions, so we don't recommend exceeding six months between service intervals.
