LEE NIELAND
West Fargo,IN
Summary
Results-oriented management professional with extensive experience in sales, customer service, dealership training and development for car and trucks. Well-regarded problem-solving skill; demonstrate a proactive mind-set, resulting in better communication, higher productivity, and fewer problems. Proven track record of successful relationship management with dealers,vendors,customers, and co-workers at all levels.
Professional finance leader with extensive experience in financial planning, budgeting, and analysis. Known for driving financial performance and fostering collaborative team environments. Reliable and adaptable, focused on delivering results through strategic financial management.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
FINANCE DIRECTOR/Automotive Finance Manager
Gateway Automotive
04.2022 - Current
- Produced individual PVR average of $2,876 and overall group PVR average to $2,586. Up from $1,800.
- Facilitated process improvements by automating manual tasks, increasing efficiency within the finance function.
- Streamlined financial processes by implementing efficient budgeting and forecasting systems.
- Successfully managed multiple audits, ensuring accurate financial information was presented to external parties without discrepancies or delays.
- Developed strong relationships with banks, credit unions, and other lending institutions to secure the best financing options for customers.
- Collaborated with sales managers to develop effective strategies for overcoming financial obstacles during vehicle negotiations.
- Consistently achieved monthly performance targets through strategic planning and execution of innovative financing solutions.
- Enhanced dealership sales by providing comprehensive financial solutions to clients seeking vehicle purchase or lease agreements.
- Fostered a positive work environment by promoting open communication and setting clear expectations for team performance, resulting in increased employee satisfaction and retention rates.
- Tailored finance packages to meet individual customer needs, fostering positive buying experience.
- Achieved top customer service ratings by providing clear, understandable explanations of finance terms and conditions.
DEALERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
ASSURANT DEALER SERVICES
05.2018 - 04.2022
- Fostered strong client relationships to drive repeat business and referrals.
- Established performance metrics to evaluate the impact of training initiatives on individual growth and organizational success.
- Supervised various locations, enforcing high-quality standards of operation.
- Ensured compliance with company policies and procedures as well as federal/state regulations by conducting regular audits of operational practices at each location within the district.
- Developed and executed comprehensive training programs for store managers, resulting in improved employee performance and customer satisfaction.
- Evaluated store performance regularly using data analysis tools to identify areas of improvement and implement targeted action plans for continuous growth.
- Collaborated with senior management on strategic planning initiatives aimed at maximizing profitability while maintaining high standards of quality across the district.
- Identified performance gaps through analysis of employee data, leading to targeted interventions that improved overall productivity.
NEW VEHICLE SALES MANAGER
CORWIN TOYOTA OF FARGO
01.2015 - 05.2018
- Set individualized goals for each team member in alignment with overall dealership objectives.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction through excellent communication, expert product knowledge, and timely followups.
- Led weekly sales meetings to review performance metrics, share best practices, and discuss upcoming opportunities.
- Oversaw daily operations of the showroom floor, ensuring smooth functioning and a welcoming environment for customers.
- Collaborated with marketing team for targeted promotions and advertising campaigns, boosting brand visibility.
- Analyzed sales data regularly to identify areas for improvement within the team, implementing necessary changes promptly.
- Implemented innovative employee training programs, leading to higher staff retention rates and improved performance.
- Consistently met or exceeded monthly sales targets through diligent monitoring of progress and adjusting tactics as needed.
- Increased vehicle sales by developing and implementing effective sales strategies tailored to customer needs.
- Coordinated with finance department to offer attractive financing options for buyers, facilitating more closed deals.
AUTO FINANCE MANAGER
CORWIN TOYOTA OF FARGO
09.2011 - 01.2015
- Sound understanding of generally accepted accounting principles
- Proficient use of MS Office applications including Excel and MS Word
- Adept at preparing financial reports and statements and analysis reports
- Solid problem solving and communications skills
- Identified new business prospects
- Developed strategies with sales managers
- Managed a high volume of loan applications, consistently meeting or exceeding monthly targets for deals closed and revenue generated.
- Collaborated with sales team to ensure seamless integration of financing options into the sales process.
- Increased customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service throughout the auto finance process.
- Maintained compliance with all state and federal regulations governing automotive financing practices.
- Maximized revenue generation by upselling a variety of finance and insurance products to customers.
- Streamlined financing procedures for faster approval and processing times.
- Conducted thorough evaluations of client credit history to determine the best financing options available.
Education
BACHELOR OF ARTS - COMMUNICATION/SALES MANAGMENT
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND01.1997
Skills
- Operations management
- Reports generation and analysis
- Results-oriented
- Contract negotiation
- Contract review
- Contract drafting
- Training and development
- Microsoft Office
- Financial records and processing
- Contract auditing
- Financial reporting and analysis
- Account analysis
Activities
- ISD 564 School Board Member, 2002-2005, Thief River Falls, MN, 56701
- Minnesota State High School League School Board Member, 2002-2005
- Member, Small Business Association, 1998-2011
Timeline
FINANCE DIRECTOR/Automotive Finance Manager
Gateway Automotive
04.2022 - Current
DEALERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
ASSURANT DEALER SERVICES
05.2018 - 04.2022
NEW VEHICLE SALES MANAGER
CORWIN TOYOTA OF FARGO
01.2015 - 05.2018
AUTO FINANCE MANAGER
CORWIN TOYOTA OF FARGO
09.2011 - 01.2015
BACHELOR OF ARTS - COMMUNICATION/SALES MANAGMENT
University of North Dakota
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