General Manager

Job Title: General Manager – Diamond Buick GMC

Department: Dealership Management
Reports To: Owner
Location: Alexandria, MN
FLSA Status: [Exempt]

If you’re looking for a place with natural beauty, a welcoming community, great schools, and an affordable lifestyle, Alexandria, Minnesota, is an ideal location. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, a family-friendly environment, or simply a slower, more peaceful pace of life, Alexandria has it all.

Job Summary

Diamond Buick as opening for the  General Manager (GM) is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of Diamond Buick GMC dealership in Alexandria, MN. Come work for

This role will manage the sales, service, parts, and finance departments, while ensuring operational excellence, achieving revenue goals, and maintaining the highest levels of customer satisfaction. The GM will provide leadership and direction to dealership staff, manage the dealership’s budget and finances, and work closely with ownership or upper management to drive the strategic direction of the dealership. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in automotive sales, operations management, and team leadership, as well as a deep understanding of financials and customer service.

Key Responsibilities

1. Dealership Operations Management

• Leadership and Oversight: Oversee all operational aspects of the dealership, including sales, service, parts, finance, and administrative functions. Provide direct supervision to department heads and ensure that operations run smoothly and efficiently.
• Policy and Procedure Development: Develop and enforce dealership policies and procedures, ensuring consistency in operations and adherence to company standards.
• Daily Operations Coordination: Ensure all departments are aligned and working toward common goals. Coordinate interdepartmental communication to maximize efficiency and minimize operational silos.
• Technology Utilization: Ensure the dealership is utilizing up-to-date technology, such as Dealer Management Systems (DMS), to optimize operational efficiency, inventory management, and customer relationship management (CRM).

2. Sales and Profitability

• Sales Strategy Development: Develop and execute comprehensive sales strategies for new and used vehicle sales, service packages, parts, and accessories. Set and monitor monthly and annual sales goals across all product lines.
• Sales Team Leadership: Lead the sales team, setting clear performance expectations, and provide motivation, coaching, and training to meet targets. Monitor individual and team sales performance and provide actionable feedback.
• Inventory Management: Work with the purchasing department and manufacturers to manage vehicle inventory, ensuring appropriate stock levels to meet customer demand while avoiding overstocking.
• Market Analysis: Conduct regular analysis of the local market, competitors, and consumer trends to adjust strategies and pricing. Use data and analytics to identify new opportunities for sales growth.
• Vehicle Sales Performance: Continuously monitor vehicle sales performance, ensuring the achievement of sales targets for both new and used vehicle units. Develop incentive programs for sales teams to drive high performance.
• Finance and Insurance (F&I) Oversight: Oversee F&I operations to ensure high-quality financing options for customers. Work closely with F&I managers to develop strategies for increasing financing penetration rates and maximizing profitability through add-on products.

3. Customer Satisfaction and Relationship Management

• Customer Experience Focus: Establish and maintain a customer-first mentality throughout all departments. Ensure customers receive a consistent, exceptional experience across their entire lifecycle with the dealership, from the first visit to post-sale service.
• Resolving Customer Complaints: Lead efforts in resolving customer issues and complaints in a professional and timely manner. Strive for win-win outcomes that ensure long-term customer satisfaction and retention.
• Customer Retention Programs: Implement loyalty and retention programs aimed at keeping customers engaged. Track repeat business and customer referrals to ensure strong long-term relationships.
• Survey Management: Manage customer feedback programs (e.g., surveys, reviews, and Net Promoter Scores) to measure customer satisfaction and make adjustments to improve service levels.

4. Financial Management and Budgeting

• Budget Development and Oversight: Prepare and manage the dealership’s annual budget, including allocations for payroll, inventory, marketing, and other operational costs. Ensure all departments operate within their allocated budgets.
• Profitability Management: Ensure that the dealership consistently meets its revenue and profit targets. Analyze financial statements (P&L) and performance metrics to assess financial health, pinpoint underperforming areas, and implement corrective actions.
• Cost Control: Identify cost-saving opportunities within the dealership, including vendor negotiations, operational efficiencies, and waste reduction. Monitor expenses closely to ensure they align with forecasts.
• Accounting Oversight: Work closely with the accounting department to oversee proper billing, financing, and insurance documentation. Ensure accurate and timely payment collection for vehicles, parts, and services.
• Dealer Incentives and Manufacturer Programs: Ensure the dealership is maximizing financial incentives and rebates from manufacturers, as well as monitoring floorplan financing and related expenses.

5. Staff Leadership and Development

• Team Building: Hire, train, and retain top talent across all departments, from sales staff to service technicians. Establish clear performance expectations for all employees and provide leadership to help them meet these goals.
• Training and Development: Provide ongoing training and professional development opportunities to employees to ensure their growth within the dealership. Develop internal leadership from within to build a strong management team.
• Performance Management: Conduct regular performance reviews for department managers and key staff. Set clear performance goals and provide continuous feedback to ensure that all team members are accountable and improving.
• Employee Engagement: Foster a positive and high-performing dealership culture. Develop programs that promote teamwork, motivation, and a strong sense of ownership among staff.
• Employee Retention: Work with HR to develop and implement employee retention strategies, including incentive programs, career development plans, and work-life balance initiatives.

6. Compliance and Legal Oversight

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure the dealership complies with all relevant laws and regulations, including federal, state, and local laws regarding vehicle sales, financing, employee relations, and environmental practices.
• Legal Documentation: Ensure proper and timely documentation for vehicle sales, leases, warranties, and title transfers. Ensure compliance with industry regulations and dealership policies.
• Health & Safety Compliance: Oversee the implementation of safety protocols in the dealership to minimize workplace accidents and ensure a safe environment for both employees and customers.
• Manufacturer and Distributor Relationships: Maintain positive relationships with vehicle manufacturers, distributors, and other partners to ensure compliance with contractual obligations, and that the dealership receives the necessary support and incentives.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience: A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in dealership management or senior-level management positions within the automotive industry, with at least 3 years in a general manager or dealership director role.
• Proven Track Record: A history of driving sales, managing multi-department operations, and achieving financial targets within a high-volume car dealership.
• Certifications: Dealer-specific certifications
• Skills and Competencies

• Leadership: Exceptional leadership and people management skills, with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a team of diverse individuals.
• Sales Expertise: Strong knowledge of automotive sales processes, including the ability to lead sales teams and create strategies that drive performance.
• Financial Acumen: Solid understanding of dealership financials, including P&L, cost management, and profitability metrics. Ability to analyze data and make strategic decisions.
• Customer Focus: Demonstrated ability to develop customer loyalty programs, ensure customer satisfaction, and resolve customer issues effectively.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make timely, effective decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to effectively communicate with staff, customers, manufacturers, and executives.
• Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with Dealer Management Systems (DMS), CRM software, Microsoft Office Suite, and other industry-related technologies.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods.
• Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to work in a dealership showroom and service area.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: $140,000.00-$460,000.00 bonus and commissions.
• Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401k, profit sharing PTO and paid holidays.
• Additional Perks: Company vehicle or car allowance, employee discounts, professional development programs.

Working Conditions

• Full-time position
• Work is performed in a dealership environment, with some time spent in the office and on the sales floor.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Diamond Buick is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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Salary : $140,000 - $460,000