James Deaton
Garland,TX
Summary
Results-driven automotive finance director with extensive experience managing dealership F&I operations, maximizing profitability, and delivering exceptional customer service. Proven track record of structuring complex automotive financing and lease agreements, increased F&I product penetration and maintaining full compliance with federal, state and lender requirements. Skilled in building strong relationships with financial institutions, leading high-performing teams, and driving revenue growth through strategic deal management and customer sales practices.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Finance Director
Group 1 Automotive - Denton Dodge
Denton, TX
11.2025 - Current
- Direct all dealership fiance and insurance operations, consistently exceeding revenue and profitability goals.
- Structure and finalize automotive fiance and lease agreements with lending institutions.
- Increase back end gross profit through effective presentation and sales of VSC, Gap, and ancillary products.
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and leander regulations.
- Train, coach and supervise fiance managers and sales staff on compliance, sales processes and product knowledge.
- Reduce funding delays and contract errors through strong attentions to detail.
- Collaborate with executive leadership and sales management to improve dealership profitability and operational efficiently.
Finance Director
Group 1 Automotive - Dallas Dodge
Dallas, TX
05.2017 - 11.2025
- Developed a team that was top finance departments within Group 1 Automotive for over 7 years.
Finance Manager
Group 1 Autotive - Dallas Dodge
Dallas, TX
10.2016 - 05.2017
- Consistently one of the top F&I Managers within Group 1.
Sales Associate Moved to Finance Manger
Frisco Dodge
Frisco, TX
11.2014 - 10.2016
- Engaged customers through personalized service, enhancing overall satisfaction and loyalty.
- Demonstrated product knowledge to assist customers in making informed purchasing decisions.
- Top sales associate every month.
Sales Associate
Group 1 Automotive - Dallas Dodge
Dallas, TX
02.2014 - 10.2014
- Top sales associate every month.
General Manager
Celebrity Cafe & Bakery
Highland Park, TX
09.2008 - 01.2014
- Directed daily operations to ensure efficient service and optimal customer satisfaction.
- Developed training programs to enhance staff performance and service delivery standards.
- Implemented cost control measures that improved profitability without compromising quality.
- Led strategic planning initiatives, increasing market share through targeted promotions and community engagement.
- Managed all aspects of daily operations, including managing budgets, inventory control, and vendor relations.
Education
Master of Science - MBA
The University of Texas At Dallas
Richardson, TXBachelor of Science - Business Administration
The University of Texas At Dallas
Richardson, TX05-2003
Skills
- Strong sales and negotiation ability
- Knowledge of automotive lending and compliance regulations
- Leadership and team management
- Customer relationship skills
- Financial analysis and deal structuring
- Attention to detail and accuracy
Timeline
Finance Director
Group 1 Automotive - Denton Dodge
11.2025 - Current
Finance Director
Group 1 Automotive - Dallas Dodge
05.2017 - 11.2025
Finance Manager
Group 1 Autotive - Dallas Dodge
10.2016 - 05.2017
Sales Associate Moved to Finance Manger
Frisco Dodge
11.2014 - 10.2016
Sales Associate
Group 1 Automotive - Dallas Dodge
02.2014 - 10.2014
General Manager
Celebrity Cafe & Bakery
09.2008 - 01.2014
Master of Science - MBA
The University of Texas At Dallas
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
The University of Texas At Dallas