Austin Rutherford
Cleveland,TN
Summary
Results-driven automotive sales and finance professional with experience leading showroom operations, structuring deals, and managing the full finance process. Proven ability to coach sales teams, maximize front- and back-end profitability, and deliver a compliant, customer-focused buying experience. Known for strong negotiation skills, operational discipline, and building trust with both customers and lending partners.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Sales Professional
Mountain View Nissan
12.2025 - Current
- Provided a consultative, customer-focused sales experience by guiding clients through vehicle selection, pricing, and financing options. Built strong rapport, handled objections, and collaborated with management and finance teams to close deals while supporting dealership sales and customer satisfaction goals.
Independent Contractor
USHADVISORS
09.2025 - 01.2026
- Worked independently to educate clients on health coverage options, assess individual needs, and recommend suitable plans. Managed the full sales cycle from prospecting to enrollment while maintaining compliance standards and building long-term client relationships.
F&I Manager
Don Ledford Automotive Center
05.2024 - 09.2025
- Managed all aspects of the finance process, including deal structuring, lender negotiations, and menu presentation of F&I products. Ensured accurate, compliant documentation while maximizing back-end profitability and delivering a clear, customer-focused purchasing experience.
Floor Sales Manager
Don Ledford Automotive Center
04.2022 - 05.2024
- Led daily showroom operations by managing the sales floor, coaching sales consultants, and desking deals to maximize profitability. Supported customer negotiations, resolved escalations, and ensured a smooth handoff to finance while driving team performance and meeting dealership sales objectives.
Sales Professional
Crown Automotive Group
02.2019 - 04.2022
- Delivered a consultative, needs-based sales experience while guiding customers through vehicle selection, financing options, and the purchase process. Consistently built rapport, handled objections, and collaborated with management and finance teams to close deals, maximize customer satisfaction, and drive dealership sales goals.
Education
High School Diploma -
Polk County High School
Benton, TN05.2018
Skills
- Automotive sales leadership & team development
- Deal structuring, desking, and closing
- Menu selling (VSC, GAP, ancillary products)
- Gross profit optimization (front-end & back-end)
- CRM, DMS, and digital retail tools
- Inventory management & sales forecasting
- Finance structuring; lender negotiation
- Regulatory compliance & contract accuracy
- Customer experience & escalation management
Timeline
Sales Professional
Mountain View Nissan
12.2025 - Current
Independent Contractor
USHADVISORS
09.2025 - 01.2026
F&I Manager
Don Ledford Automotive Center
05.2024 - 09.2025
Floor Sales Manager
Don Ledford Automotive Center
04.2022 - 05.2024
Sales Professional
Crown Automotive Group
02.2019 - 04.2022
High School Diploma -
Polk County High School