Joel Smith
Summary
Driven Executive General Manager with comprehensive background leading all aspects of retail operations, including customer service, merchandising, payroll management and inventory. Effective leader skilled in developing highly productive teams. Proficient in standard office and retail environment equipment, including cash registers, computers and multi-line telephones.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Executive General Manager / Vice President
Hendrick Chevrolet Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Subaru
03.2014 - 03.2024
- Boosted overall company growth by implementing strategic business plans and overseeing daily operations.
- Developed strong partnerships with clients, increasing customer satisfaction and repeat business.
- Streamlined operational processes for enhanced efficiency and cost reduction efforts.
- Managed cross-functional teams, fostering a collaborative work environment to achieve company goals.
- Expanded market presence through targeted marketing campaigns and promotional events.
- Established performance metrics to track progress and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
- Implemented innovative revenue-generating strategies, contributing to the company''s financial success.
- Led organizational change initiatives, improving overall productivity and employee engagement levels.
- Coordinated complex projects from conception to completion, ensuring timely delivery within budget constraints.
- Provided guidance on talent acquisition strategies, resulting in an exceptional team of professionals.
- Enhanced employee skill sets through comprehensive training programs and professional development opportunities.
- Spearheaded merger and acquisition activities, successfully integrating new businesses into the organization''s portfolio.
- Championed corporate social responsibility initiatives, promoting a positive brand image within the community.
- Negotiated favorable contracts with vendors and suppliers, optimizing procurement costs while maintaining quality standards.
- Oversaw technology implementation projects that streamlined workflows and improved overall efficiency.
- Chaired weekly meetings with executive leadership to identify opportunities for improvement, establish milestones, and tailor products to individual markets.
- Recruited, mentored and coached staff of 305 associates in delivering customer-focused performance.
- Achieved Hendrick Champions 2020, 2021 and 2023
General Manager / Vice President
Hendrick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
03.2011 - 05.2014
- Increased overall company efficiency by streamlining operations and implementing innovative managerial strategies.
- Developed and executed strategic plans for business growth and expansion, resulting in increased market share.
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
- Analyzed market trends/data to identify potential opportunities for business growth within existing or emerging markets successfully.
- Established performance goals for department and outlined processes for achievement.
- Employed optimal safety practices to reduce worksite complaints and hazards.
- Collaborated effectively with cross-functional teams on various projects/initiatives aimed at enhancing organizational performance.
- Monitored financial performance, set budgets and controlled expenses to provide financial stability and long-term organizational growth.
- Maximized efficiency by coaching and mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, company procedures, and technology systems.
- Drove year-over-year business growth while leading operations, strategic vision, and long-range planning.
Retail Operations Manager
Hendrick Chevrolet
05.2005 - 04.2011
- Boosted overall sales performance by identifying opportunities for improvement and implementing targeted sales strategies.
- Developed a high-performing team through effective recruitment, training, and mentoring initiatives.
- Managed inventory control and stock levels by implementing accurate tracking systems and optimizing orders.
- Oversaw all aspects of store operations, ensuring consistent compliance with company policies and industry regulations.
- Improved customer satisfaction ratings with attentive service, prompt issue resolution, and proactive relationship building efforts.
- Reduced employee turnover rate by fostering a positive work environment and providing ongoing support to staff members.
- Collaborated closely with other managers to exchange best practices in retail operations management and drive continuous improvement across the organization.
- Established strong relationships with vendors to secure favorable pricing terms for merchandise procurement while maintaining quality standards.
- Set performance goals for each department within the store to ensure alignment with overall business objectives.
- Managed budgets effectively by monitoring expenses closely, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and allocating resources strategically.
- Championed a culture of continuous improvement within the team by encouraging open feedback, experimentation with new ideas, and learning from both successes and failures.
- Exceeded revenue goals on consistent basis, resulting in commendation from management.
- Trained new employees on proper protocols and customer service standards.
- Trained and guided team members to maintain high productivity and performance metrics.
- Handled problematic customers and clients to assist lower-level employees and maintain excellent customer service.
- Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.
- Ranked highest net profit in Hendrick domestic group 2009-2011
Retail Operations Manager
Hendrick Dodge Cary
08.2000 - 04.2005
- Enhanced store productivity by streamlining operational processes and implementing efficient work practices.
- Boosted overall sales performance by identifying opportunities for improvement and implementing targeted sales strategies.
- Oversaw all aspects of store operations, ensuring consistent compliance with company policies and industry regulations.
- Worked to develop business development centers across auto mall
- Tripled sales within 6 months of BDC implementation
Sales Consultant
Al Smith Buick Dodge Mazda
03.1999 - 08.2000
- Boosted customer satisfaction by providing personalized consultations and tailored product recommendations.
- Generated increased sales revenue through effective lead generation and follow-up efforts.
- Developed long-lasting client relationships by consistently exceeding expectations with exceptional service.
- Enhanced team performance by sharing successful sales strategies and best practices in regular team meetings.
Owner / Operator
Money Mailer Franchise
08.1996 - 03.1999
- Increased customer satisfaction by providing high-quality services and timely communication.
- Managed daily operations for optimal efficiency, streamlining processes to reduce costs.
- Developed and implemented successful marketing strategies, resulting in increased brand awareness and customer base.
- Established strong relationships with suppliers, ensuring consistent delivery of goods and services at competitive prices.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors to secure favorable terms for the business.
- Optimized workflow processes through careful analysis of operational needs and resource allocation.
- Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
Education
Associate of Arts - Graphic Design / Marketing
School of Communication Arts / NC State
Raleigh, NC05.1996
High School Diploma -
Southern Durham High School
Durham, NC05.1994
Skills
- Human Resources Management
- Customer Relationship Management
- Staff Supervision
- Project Management
- Customer Retention
- Expense Control
- Cost Reductions
- Deadline-oriented
- Team Leadership
- Mergers and Acquisitions
- Promotional planning
- Operations Management
Certification
- Licensed Association of Finance and Insurance Professionals
Volunteering
- Member Board of Directors
Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce
Jan 2013-Sept 2019
- Member Board of Directors
Heritage Christian Academy
Jan 2013 - Dec 2022
- Board of Directors
Aldridge Gardens
Jan 2015 - Present
- Finance Committee
Shades Mountain Baptist Church
Jan 2022 - Present
- Baseball/ Football Coach
Shades Montain Parks - Hoover
Feb 2020 - Present
Timeline
Executive General Manager / Vice President
Hendrick Chevrolet Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Subaru
03.2014 - 03.2024
General Manager / Vice President
Hendrick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
03.2011 - 05.2014
Retail Operations Manager
Hendrick Chevrolet
05.2005 - 04.2011
Retail Operations Manager
Hendrick Dodge Cary
08.2000 - 04.2005
Sales Consultant
Al Smith Buick Dodge Mazda
03.1999 - 08.2000
Owner / Operator
Money Mailer Franchise
08.1996 - 03.1999
Associate of Arts - Graphic Design / Marketing
School of Communication Arts / NC State
High School Diploma -
Southern Durham High School
- Licensed Association of Finance and Insurance Professionals
Similar Profiles
STACEY MCLEODSTACEY MCLEOD
Service Advisor at Hendrick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FiatService Advisor at Hendrick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat
Christopher Tabor-GrayChristopher Tabor-Gray
Retail Parts Advisor at Hendrick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Of ConcordRetail Parts Advisor at Hendrick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Of Concord
Forrest WilkinsForrest Wilkins
Sales Consultant at Hendrick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of ConcordSales Consultant at Hendrick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Concord