William Lawhead
Chesapeake,VA
Summary
Results-driven sales professional with extensive experience in managing high-performing teams and developing innovative sales strategies. Expertise in sales forecasting and negotiation has led to a 10% employee turnover rate while driving over $50 million in annual sales.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
General Sales Manager
Suttle Cadillac Buick GMC
Newport News, Virginia
12.2018 - 01.2026
- Spearheaded CarBravo certification process, establishing dealership as top 20 volume leader nationally since 2021.
- Desked new and pre-owned deals at store, contributing to annual sales of $50 million to $55 million.
- Directed management staff and advised ownership on comprehensive marketing and advertising strategies, resulting in increased brand visibility.
- Oversaw 15 sales representatives, 2 Finance Managers, and 2 sales managers while achieving employee turnover rate of 10% in industry with rates between 67% and 80%
- Enhanced customer response and follow-up through effective negotiation and targeted marketing tactics, leading to improved customer satisfaction.
- Capitalized on years of expertise and connections with national banks and local credit unions to acquire essential loans while upholding all fair lending practices.
Used Car Sales Manager
Suttle Cadillac Buick GMC
Newport News, Virginia
10.2014 - 12.2018
- I took over a department that delivered 523 units in 2014 and averaged over 1,000 units per year through 2019, when I was promoted to GSM.
- Crafted pricing strategies aligned with market trends and competitor insights to enhance sales competitiveness.
- Coordinated vehicle appraisals to assess trade-in values accurately and fairly.
- Managed customer financing options to streamline purchasing processes and enhance customer satisfaction.
- Executed targeted marketing campaigns that boosted used car sales and increased dealership foot traffic.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Sports Management
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, Virginia, VA01-2002
Skills
- Deal structuring and financing strategies
- Sales forecasting and market analysis
- CRM software proficiency
- Customer acquisition and retention
- Inventory management and price structuring
- Negotiation tactics and problem solving
- Effective communication skills
- Vauto and Dealertrack expertise
Timeline
General Sales Manager
Suttle Cadillac Buick GMC
12.2018 - 01.2026
Used Car Sales Manager
Suttle Cadillac Buick GMC
10.2014 - 12.2018
Bachelor of Science - Sports Management
Old Dominion University