JOEL SMITH
Hoover,Alabama
Summary
Dynamic enterprise operator with over 25 years of experience leading multi-location businesses, driving revenue growth, and cultivating high-performance cultures. Proven track record of achieving approximately 15% annual growth, revitalizing distressed operations, and guiding large teams to consistently exceed market benchmarks. Expertise in managing organizations with revenues exceeding $50 million, overseeing complex multi-site operations, and transforming struggling businesses into dominant regional leaders. Committed to leveraging strategic vision and operational excellence to deliver sustainable success and foster innovation.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Financial Representative & Managing Director Team
Northwestern Mutual
01.2024 - Current
- Advise business owners and professionals on financial strategy and long-term planning.
- Build and scale client base through relationship-driven growth.
- Implement accountability frameworks and performance tracking systems.
- Support succession and continuity planning.
Executive General Manager / Vice President
Hendrick Chevrolet Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Subaru
01.2014 - 01.2024
- Led operations exceeding $50M in annual revenue across multiple locations.
- Delivered consistent ~15% annual growth through sales leadership and marketing execution.
- Turned around bankrupt dealerships into dominant regional franchises within ~14 months.
- Managed tens of millions in operational and marketing budgets.
- Led 300+ team members with 12–15 direct leadership reports.
- Implemented CRM platforms, performance dashboards, and marketing systems.
- Negotiated vendor partnerships and improved cost structure.
- Built performance-driven culture centered on accountability and leadership development.
General Manager / Vice President
Hendrick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
01.2011 - 01.2014
- Directed full P&L and operational execution for high-volume operation.
- Delivered growth and market share expansion.
- Implemented performance management systems across departments.
- Managed staffing strategy, budgeting, and strategic planning.
Retail Operations Manager
Hendrick Chevrolet
01.2005 - 01.2011
- Led multi-department operations including sales, marketing, inventory, and staffing.
- Developed leadership pipeline through recruiting and coaching.
- Reduced turnover and improved engagement.
- Ranked highest in net profitability across division multiple years.
Retail Operations Manager
Hendrick Dodge Cary
01.2000 - 01.2005
- Implemented operational improvements that increased productivity and sales.
- Developed business development center model that tripled sales within six months.
- Oversaw daily operations, staffing, and performance management.
Sales Consultant
Al Smith Buick Dodge Mazda
01.1999 - 01.2000
- Top-performing sales producer through relationship-driven customer strategy.
- Generated revenue through lead generation and follow-up systems.
- Developed strong customer relationships through effective communication and product knowledge.
- Analyzed customer needs to recommend appropriate vehicle options and financing solutions.
Owner / Operator
Money Mailer Franchise
01.1996 - 01.1999
- Built and operated marketing-focused franchise business.
- Led customer acquisition, vendor partnerships, and operational execution.
- Managed budgeting, sales strategy, and business growth.
Education
Associate of Arts - Graphic Design & Marketing
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC05-1996
Skills
- Led organizations exceeding $50M annual revenue
- Delivered ~15% year-over-year growth under executive leadership
- Turned around bankrupt dealerships within ~14 months
- Directed multi-location operations (3 sites simultaneously)
- Managed 12–15 direct reports and 300 total employees
- Managed tens of millions in operational and marketing budgets
- Implemented CRM, performance software, and marketing systems to accelerate growth
- Consistently exceeded performance plans and earned Champions-level recognition
- Data analysis
- Sales expertise
- Process improvement
- Teamwork and collaboration
Affiliations
- Board Member — Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce
- Board Member — Heritage Christian Academy
- Board Member — Aldridge Gardens
- Finance Committee — Shades Mountain Baptist Church
- Youth Football & Baseball Coach — Shades Mtn Parks
Certification
- Financial & Insurance Licensing
- Dale Carnegie Leadership Training
- NADA Executive Leadership Training
- Hendrick Automotive Leadership Academy
- Birmingham Business Journal — Top 40 Under 40
Timeline
Financial Representative & Managing Director Team
Northwestern Mutual
01.2024 - Current
Executive General Manager / Vice President
Hendrick Chevrolet Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Subaru
01.2014 - 01.2024
General Manager / Vice President
Hendrick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
01.2011 - 01.2014
Retail Operations Manager
Hendrick Chevrolet
01.2005 - 01.2011
Retail Operations Manager
Hendrick Dodge Cary
01.2000 - 01.2005
Sales Consultant
Al Smith Buick Dodge Mazda
01.1999 - 01.2000
Owner / Operator
Money Mailer Franchise
01.1996 - 01.1999
Associate of Arts - Graphic Design & Marketing
North Carolina State University