Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Automotive Expertise
References
Timeline
Generic

John Pinkowski

Clermont,FL

Summary

Results-driven Sales Manager and former business owner with over 10 years of experience leading top-performing teams in fast-paced retail, call center, and service environments. Proven ability to coach sales reps, manage BDC operations, and drive revenue through structured processes and hands-on leadership. Skilled in desking deals, building CRM workflows, managing inbound/outbound call strategies, and improving customer retention through follow-up and accountability. Known for creating a culture of performance, resolving challenges with empathy, and consistently exceeding goals. Entrepreneurial, motivated, and focused on delivering measurable results and exceptional customer experiences.

Overview

18
18
years of professional experience

Work History

Sales Manager

Subaru North Orlando
Sanford, Florida
01.2024 - 04.2025
  • Managed day-to-day operations of the new and pre-owned sales departments to meet volume, CSI, and gross profit targets
  • Supervised 10 Sales Consultants and 2 BDC Representatives; coached on performance, follow-up, and customer engagement
  • Oversaw BDC activities including inbound/outbound calls, appointment setting, and unsold lead follow-up via phone, email, and text
  • Answered inbound calls from dissatisfied guests to resolve concerns and negotiate solutions that met business and customer needs
  • Conducted post-sale follow-up calls to ensure customer satisfaction and compliance with manufacturer KPIs
  • Recruited, hired, and onboarded new sales staff; developed schedules and managed time-off requests
  • Led weekly sales meetings and monthly one-on-one coaching to track progress, set goals, and support professional growth
  • Managed payroll, attendance, and employee records through HRIS software
  • Desked and structured deals; submitted applications to lenders and rehashed to maximize approval rates and gross profit
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of OEM programs and lender guidelines to support front-end and F&I profitability
  • Enforced 100% Turnover (T.O.) process to increase closing ratio and maintain a consistent customer journey
  • Monitored CRM compliance for timely follow-ups, notes, and customer communications
  • Served as escalation point for customer issues; closed deals and resolved complaints directly when needed
  • Appraised trade-ins using vAuto; managed inventory pricing and assisted with new vehicle ordering and incentive tracking
  • Produced daily performance reports and tracked team KPIs and sales metrics
  • Maintained high CSI scores and online reputation through process training and proactive quality control
  • Managed digital retail operations including online listings, photo uploads, and eCommerce lead response

Desk & Finance Manager

Hill Nissan
Winter Haven, Florida
12.2020 - 12.2023
  • Directed daily operations of both new and used vehicle departments, including inventory control, reconditioning, and wholesale management
  • Structured and desked deals to optimize profitability across both front-end sales and finance & insurance (F&I)
  • Served as Finance Manager with an average Per Vehicle Retail (PVR) of $2,321, overseeing final deal structuring, menu presentations, and funding coordination
  • Accurately prepared and submitted all DMV paperwork in compliance with state regulatory requirements
  • Processed and secured funding from financial institutions promptly to ensure efficient deal closures
  • Presented F&I product menus—GAP, VSC, tire & wheel, key replacement, and paint protection—to maximize backend gross while maintaining guest transparency
  • Finalized and packaged all deal jackets for accounting review and ensured readiness for audits
  • Built and maintained strong relationships with a broad network of lending partners
  • Assisted service department with extended warranty sales and post-sale product support
  • Maintained full compliance with all financial regulations and ethical standards in every transaction
  • Oversaw BDC operations including inbound/outbound calls, appointment setting, and unsold lead follow-up via phone, email, and text
  • Resolved escalated customer concerns directly to close deals and ensure satisfaction
  • Appraised trade-ins and sourced inventory using vAuto and VinZip tools
  • Managed RDR submissions and maintained accurate incentive reporting for new car sales
  • Conducted daily team training and coaching sessions to improve performance and maintain high CSI scores
  • Tracked individual sales team KPIs to increase lead conversion and follow-up effectiveness
  • Managed dealership website and digital sales tools to support online leads and eCommerce strategy
  • Coordinated trade-in reconditioning and wholesale preparation to ensure lot readiness
  • Maintained relationships with local auction partners, including Adesa, to control wholesale inventory flow

Project Manager

Pelican Commerce
Windermere, Florida
04.2019 - 12.2020
  • Managed inbound and outbound sales calls, as well as follow-up on internet leads, requiring strong verbal communication and relationship-building skills to convert prospects into active clients
  • Oversaw client onboarding for e-commerce platforms, including full product catalog setup on Amazon Marketplace, Walmart Marketplace, and other retail platforms
  • Communicated directly with clients via phone, video, and email to explain technical processes, resolve issues, and ensure smooth transitions—demonstrating strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Navigated between multiple concurrent software tools—including project management platforms (e.g., Trello, Asana), content upload systems, product databases, and client CRMs—to coordinate deliverables and timelines efficiently
  • Demonstrated proven computer proficiency in a Microsoft Windows environment, regularly utilizing Excel for catalog prep, Outlook for communication, and file systems for bulk uploads and audits
  • Led a 5-person team managing 35–40 active projects; ensured quality, consistency, and compliance with all platform listing requirements and brand standards
  • Audited product listings to ensure SEO optimization, data integrity, and alignment with marketplace algorithms to drive visibility and sales
  • Developed and implemented SOPs for onboarding, catalog audits, and performance tracking to improve client experience and internal workflow
  • Resolved technical issues by coordinating with internal teams and third-party marketplace support, ensuring launch timelines stayed on track

Outside Wholesale Remarketing Representative

Hertz Corporation
Estero, Florida
04.2018 - 04.2019
  • Managed B2B wholesale sales operations, executing direct-to-dealer transactions and maintaining relationships with independent and franchise buyers
  • Conducted daily cold calls and outbound outreach to car dealers, establishing new accounts and growing territory presence
  • Scheduled in-person and virtual follow-up sales meetings to present vehicle inventory, discuss buyer needs, and close high-volume deals
  • Negotiated pricing and finalized purchase agreements, coordinating with buyers, dealer groups, and floorplan financing companies
  • Maintained and grew existing customer base through proactive communication, account service, and consistent deal execution
  • Sourced inventory based on client requests, locating units across regional holding areas to meet specific vehicle specs and demand
  • Performed detailed vehicle inspections and condition reports to ensure compliance with buyer expectations and wholesale standards
  • Utilized CRM tools and digital remarketing platforms to track sales activity, update inventory availability, and manage client engagement
  • Collaborated with internal operations, fleet management, and logistics teams to coordinate deliveries and resolve inventory issues

Pre-Owned Manager

Intelligent Automotive Marketing
Orlando, Florida
04.2017 - 04.2018
  • Managed used vehicle inventory of 90–180 units across multiple offsite locations and a central warehouse, ensuring timely retail readiness and merchandising
  • Coordinated inspection scheduling and completion to prepare vehicles for retail sale, communicating with vendors and logistics partners daily
  • Supported wholesale acquisition and liquidation processes at Manheim Auctions, and purchased inventory from Hertz, Avis Budget Group (ABG), and Enterprise
  • Oversaw transportation and logistics for vehicles moving between auctions, events, and storage facilities, maintaining operational efficiency
  • Utilized vAuto to conduct inventory analysis, price setting, and merchandising decisions based on market trends
  • Set up vehicle display lots at offsite retail events; photographed and uploaded retail-ready inventory to eCommerce platforms to drive online traffic and buyer interest
  • Conducted on-site appraisals for trade-in or wholesale acquisition, providing condition assessments and valuation guidance
  • Used RouteOne and Dealertrack to submit finance applications, track deals, and support remote desking and F&I operations
  • Demonstrated strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills while working with vendors, finance partners, and sales teams
  • Maintained high efficiency in fast-paced environments by navigating multiple concurrent software applications to manage vehicle records, CRM notes, and digital paperwork
  • Showcased proven computer proficiency in a Microsoft Windows environment, including Excel, Outlook, and DMS tools

Floor Sales Representative

Starling Chevrolet
Orlando, Florida
12.2014 - 04.2017
  • Delivered personalized automotive solutions by actively listening to customer needs, identifying pain points, and guiding them to vehicles that matched lifestyle, budget, and feature preferences
  • Managed high-volume inbound and outbound phone activity, including cold calls and follow-up with warm internet leads, to schedule appointments and convert interest into showroom visits
  • Handled showroom traffic and digital leads from multiple sources, consistently closing 20+ vehicle sales per month in a fast-paced, commission-driven environment
  • Proactively set sales appointments and followed up with unsold prospects via phone, email, and text to increase engagement and build rapport
  • Honored as a two-time General Motors Mark of Excellence (MOE) Award winner (2015 & 2016) for exceeding sales targets, customer satisfaction scores, and brand representation
  • Served as the go-to New Car Product Knowledge Expert, delivering feature walkthroughs, vehicle comparisons, and test drive experiences that empowered customer decision-making
  • Provided in-depth presentations on Chevrolet's full vehicle lineup, including advanced safety, infotainment, and technology packages to elevate the overall guest experience
  • Skilled in E-leads CRM to manage customer interactions, follow-up cadence, and prospect tracking; consistently maintained accurate lead notes and task management
  • Utilized vAuto to monitor inventory pricing, market comparisons, and merchandising updates to stay competitive in a dynamic market
  • Operated within GM Global Connect to handle vehicle reporting, dealer trades, invoicing, OnStar activation, and program incentive management
  • Verified and processed GM supplier, military, and employee pricing (VPP) eligibility to ensure program compliance and customer satisfaction
  • Demonstrated strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, creating a positive and transparent buying experience for first-time and returning customers
  • Excelled at multitasking across multiple software tools and screens, showcasing the ability to navigate between concurrent applications in a high-pressure environment
  • Maintained a strong understanding of dealership finance options, trade-in processes, and vehicle availability to guide customers through each stage of the buying journey

Boat Captain

Atlantic Clam Farm, Inc.
Port Chester, New York
06.2007 - 12.2014
  • Operated and navigated a 70-foot commercial fishing vessel, ensuring safe, efficient operations and full compliance with U.S. Coast Guard and state maritime regulations
  • Supervised a crew of 4–6 team members during daily offshore fishing activities, prioritizing safety procedures, productivity, and communication at sea
  • Performed routine mechanical maintenance and repairs on diesel engines, hydraulic systems, winches, and onboard refrigeration units to ensure consistent vessel performance
  • Diagnosed mechanical issues and completed preventative service tasks to minimize equipment downtime and extend operational life of onboard machinery
  • Adhered to local and state seafood handling regulations, including loading, offloading, and onboard storage processes in compliance with HACCP food safety protocols
  • Maintained detailed HACCP records and logs, supporting regulatory inspections and audit readiness
  • Oversaw the packing, refrigeration, and shipment of fresh seafood orders, ensuring order accuracy, quality control, and proper temperature handling during transfer
  • Operated forklifts and heavy equipment to load/unload seafood catch, supplies, and fuel for day-to-day operations
  • Communicated clearly with dock teams, buyers, and processors to coordinate logistics and ensure seamless transitions between harvesting and delivery
  • Utilized physical strength and mechanical problem-solving daily in demanding maritime conditions, showcasing strong hands-on technical ability in dynamic environments

Partner / Co-Owner

J&J Transfer, LLC
Greenwich, Connecticut
01.2010 - 10.2014
  • Built and grew a wholesale seafood distribution business through proactive inbound and outbound phone sales, cold-calling restaurants, markets, and distributors to expand the client base and drive revenue
  • Delivered responsive, relationship-focused customer service by identifying client needs and offering tailored product recommendations, resulting in long-term repeat business
  • Conducted in-person sales visits and follow-up calls to maintain account satisfaction and introduce new product offerings
  • Managed all aspects of logistics and regional distribution, overseeing the operation of a small commercial fleet for timely and safe delivery of perishable goods
  • Supervised warehouse inventory, performing rotation and freshness checks to ensure quality control in compliance with HACCP standards and food safety regulations
  • Coordinated fresh seafood shipments from multiple suppliers and fulfilled orders on strict timelines, balancing logistics, product quality, and temperature control
  • Handled full-cycle bookkeeping using QuickBooks, including invoicing, billing, accounts payable and receivable, and end-of-month financial reporting
  • Managed procurement of shipping and packing supplies to ensure uninterrupted order fulfillment and cost control
  • Ensured full compliance with local, state, and federal food handling regulations, including oversight of DOT compliance for commercial transport vehicles
  • Maintained strong communication across sales, warehouse, and delivery operations, demonstrating the ability to navigate multiple systems and balance day-to-day execution with long-term business development
  • Regularly used Microsoft Windows-based tools, including Excel and Outlook, to track sales, delivery logs, and customer communications

Education

Some College (No Degree) - Business And Marketing.

Hudson Valley Community College
Troy, NY

High School Diploma -

Ichabod Crane High School
Valatie, NY
05-2007

Skills

  • Sales management expertise
  • Customer relationship management
  • Deal structuring strategies
  • Inventory analysis skills
  • Financial compliance knowledge
  • Digital marketing techniques
  • Relationship building
  • Goal setting proficiency
  • Prospecting and telemarketing
  • Project management skills
  • Vendor relationship management
  • Market development strategies
  • Account management skills
  • Cold calling techniques
  • Sales reporting proficiency
  • Closing techniques expertise
  • Territory growth strategies
  • Order management skills
  • CRM software proficiency
  • Vendor management skills
  • Staff management capabilities
  • KPI tracking expertise
  • Solution selling techniques
  • Presentation delivery skills
  • Direct sales experience
  • Engagement techniques expertise

Affiliations

  • Former small business owner with a strong passion for entrepreneurship and customer satisfaction
  • Regular visitor to Walt Disney World and other theme parks; enjoy observing operations and guest experience strategies
  • Avid griller — steak over seafood any day
  • Enjoy spending time with family, hosting backyard cookouts, and organizing neighborhood events
  • Passionate about leadership development, sales performance, and building winning teams

Automotive Expertise

Expertise

vAuto

Dealertrack & Route One

Reynolds and Reynolds

CDK Global

Contact Management & Elead

UVeye- Vehicle Inspection

DLRdmv & T21

Nissan Certified (XD800315)

Subaru Certified

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Sales Manager

Subaru North Orlando
01.2024 - 04.2025

Desk & Finance Manager

Hill Nissan
12.2020 - 12.2023

Project Manager

Pelican Commerce
04.2019 - 12.2020

Outside Wholesale Remarketing Representative

Hertz Corporation
04.2018 - 04.2019

Pre-Owned Manager

Intelligent Automotive Marketing
04.2017 - 04.2018

Floor Sales Representative

Starling Chevrolet
12.2014 - 04.2017

Partner / Co-Owner

J&J Transfer, LLC
01.2010 - 10.2014

Boat Captain

Atlantic Clam Farm, Inc.
06.2007 - 12.2014

Some College (No Degree) - Business And Marketing.

Hudson Valley Community College

High School Diploma -

Ichabod Crane High School

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John Pinkowski