The PartsEdge Podcast

Austin Conroy is the Regional Fixed Operations Director for Rohrman Automotive Group, overseeing a wide network of dealerships across multiple states. With over seven years at the company, starting from the sales floor and escalating to his current leadership role, Austin Conroy has demonstrated exceptional adaptability and understanding of various facets of the automotive industry.

Austin Conroy discusses the pivotal role of integrating service and parts departments to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Austin Conroy highlights the Infinite Pursuit program as a key initiative encouraging parts and services to work in unison, aiming to reduce inventory costs while increasing service quality. This approach not only boosts profitability but also ensures a seamless customer experience.

Moreover, Austin Conroy stresses the adoption of innovative tools like Sunbit for financing and Techion for streamlined operations. In the age of technology, being adaptable and tech-savvy is essential. This episode provides invaluable insights into the modern strategies automotive groups can implement to stay ahead in a competitive market.

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This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Their strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com.

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Takeaways

Quote

“We hire great people and then we find the best seat on the bus for them.” -Austin Conroy

Connect:

Austin Conroy

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/austin-conroy-05b4795a

Website: www.rohrman.com

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl

Website: www.partsedge.com

David Long is the founder of Pandemic of Positivity, and is the Executive General Manager at Hansel Auto Group. With over 30 years experience in the automotive industry, he has held roles from General Manager to Vice President of Operations. David also hosts the All Things Used Cars and All Things Fixed Operations on Clubhouse.

David Long shares his wisdom highlighting the virtues of focus, discipline, and intensity in achieving goals and the dangers of half-hearted commitment. They discuss actionable hiring practices, the role of thorough and candid employee evaluations, and the tough choices leaders must make to maintain high standards.

As they explore the human side of business, David recounts his personal journey with sobriety and how helping others has been a cornerstone of his continued success. They reflect on the value of positivity, mentorship, and setting healthy boundaries in professional and personal realms.

Throughout the episode, David Long's passion for both personal growth and mentoring others shines through, offering listeners a wealth of practical advice backed by decades of real-world experience.

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This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Their strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com.

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Takeaways

Quote

“I find that the more I pour into people, the more blessed I am.” -David Long

Connect:

David Long

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/davidjlong4

Website: www.hanselautogroup.com

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl

Website: www.partsedge.com

Ted Ings is the Founder and President of Fixed Ops Roundtable® and Center for Performance Improvement®. With over 42 years in the automotive industry, he has pioneered innovative training solutions, significantly enhancing client success in customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

In today’s episode, we flashed back to a previous episode where Ted Ings and I talked about the crucial topic of obsolescence in the automotive industry and how it affects dealerships in various ways. I also shared insights on identifying and managing obsolescence, the domino factors at play, and the importance of communication and teamwork in the parts and service departments.

Join us as we delve into the world of parts management, inventory control, the impact of effective processes on dealership success, as well as the role of PartsEdge in assisting dealerships in optimizing their inventory, reducing obsolescence, and achieving better overall performance.

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This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Their strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com.

Presenting: FIXED OPS ROUNDTABLE: 90's Rewind! – A 4-day Virtual Event with 150+ expert speakers, 30 panel discussions, and 3 keynote speakers discussing the latest technologies, processes, and information you all need to know! Happening on May 13 to 16, 2024. Get your complimentary tickets now. Click here!

The Fixed Ops Roundtable is where the automotive industry goes to stay ahead of the curve, delivering an astonishing array of technology, experts, dealers, managers, education, marketing, and networking opportunities–all carefully designed to make a highly-targeted impact on the fixed operations business.

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Takeaways

Quote

“We want to make sure we got our inventories and processes down right.” -Ted Ings

Connect:

Ted Ings

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ted-ings

Website: www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-roundtable

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl

Website: www.partsedge.com

Scott Rutherford is the interim parts director of the Mike Maroone Auto Group. He is the parts manager of Mike Maroone Chevrolet North Store, and the Mike Maroone Volkswagen Store in Colorado Springs. He specializes in optimizing stock levels, managing returns, and ensuring that technicians have the necessary supplies to perform their tasks without interruption.

Scott shares his insights on inventory management, mentoring new parts managers, and the benefits of using PartsEdge for efficient operations. From his early days at a trade technical college to his current role overseeing multiple locations, Scott's journey in the industry is inspiring. 

With his wealth of knowledge and dedication to training, Scott proves that collaboration between parts and service managers is essential for a successful operation.

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This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Their strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com.

This show is Sponsored by:

Fixed Ops Marketing: Dive into a world of amplified profitability with their comprehensive marketing solutions. From viral video marketing to robust support for service departments, they’ve got your marketing needs covered. Their services encompass SEO, dealer-branded video content, automation, and social media marketing. Discover how Fixed Ops Marketing can enhance your business today by visiting 🔗 www.fixedopsmarketing.com.

Bayley: Unlock operational finesse with Bayley’s Automated Vehicle & Key Tracking solutions. Streamline your Lot Management, Recon, and Fixed Ops. Their ingenious solutions are tailored to inject efficiency, fuel sales acceleration, and elevate your Customer Satisfaction Index. Traverse the Bayley journey and unveil how they can morph your dealership dynamics at 🔗 www.getbayley.com.

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Takeaways:

Quote

“I want to retire while I'm still young enough to enjoy it and get around.” -Scott Rutherford

Connect:

Scott Rutherford

Website: www.mikemaroonecolorado.com

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl
Website: www.partsedge.com

Jaime Macias serves as the Interim Fixed Ops Director of the CASA Auto Group, playing a pivotal role in overseeing service operations across their automotive dealerships. His leadership is integral to ensuring the group's commitment to customer service and operational excellence.

He opens up about his path from starting in the ranks of a porter to mastering the art of service management. His dedication to vehicle reconditioning and a razor-sharp grasp on inventory economics underscore the depth of his expertise.

Jaime Macia's approach is far more than just numbers; it's about cultivating relationships and fostering a nurturing work environment. Regular engagement through Employee Satisfaction Index surveys underlines the dealership's focus on its people - the driving force behind its success.

Furthermore, Jaime's collaboration with PartsEdge emerges as a game-changer in how parts managers streamline inventory, saving time and capital while boosting efficiency. This episode not only serves as a masterclass in automotive management but also shines a light on the importance of balancing professional and personal spheres, the power of recognizing team members' love languages, and the art of coupling compliments with criticism for remarkable leadership.

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This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Their strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com.

This show is Sponsored by:

Fixed Ops Marketing: Dive into a world of amplified profitability with their comprehensive marketing solutions. From viral video marketing to robust support for service departments, they’ve got your marketing needs covered. Their services encompass SEO, dealer-branded video content, automation, and social media marketing. Discover how Fixed Ops Marketing can enhance your business today by visiting 🔗 www.fixedopsmarketing.com.

Bayley: Unlock operational finesse with Bayley’s Automated Vehicle & Key Tracking solutions. Streamline your Lot Management, Recon, and Fixed Ops. Their ingenious solutions are tailored to inject efficiency, fuel sales acceleration, and elevate your Customer Satisfaction Index. Traverse the Bayley journey and unveil how they can morph your dealership dynamics at 🔗 www.getbayley.com.

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Takeaways

Quote

“My heart has always been in reconditioning vehicles and used cars. I've always loved it.” -Jaime Macias

Connect:

Jaime Macias

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jaime-macias-22617a146

Website: www.casaautogroup.com

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl
Website: www.partsedge.com

Ryan Else is currently the Corporate Fixed Operations Director of Eide Motors. He began his automotive career in 2002 as a technician at Ford, fresh from tech school. Over the next 12 years, his expertise and commitment to excellence propelled him to the rank of Senior Master Ford Technician.

Ryan shares insights on the challenges faced in the auto industry, from managing a tech shortage to preparing for the emergence of electric vehicles. He discusses the impact of technology, including AI and automation, on service scheduling and customer communication. Additionally, 

He then delved into the transition from technical to managerial roles, emphasizing the significance of inventory management and the value of resources like PartsEdge in addressing inventory-related issues.  This episode offers valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of the automotive industry and the role of technology in driving efficiency and effectiveness.

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This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Their strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com.

This show is Sponsored by:

Fixed Ops Marketing: Dive into a world of amplified profitability with their comprehensive marketing solutions. From viral video marketing to robust support for service departments, they’ve got your marketing needs covered. Their services encompass SEO, dealer-branded video content, automation, and social media marketing. Discover how Fixed Ops Marketing can enhance your business today by visiting 🔗 www.fixedopsmarketing.com.

Bayley: Unlock operational finesse with Bayley’s Automated Vehicle & Key Tracking solutions. Streamline your Lot Management, Recon, and Fixed Ops. Their ingenious solutions are tailored to inject efficiency, fuel sales acceleration, and elevate your Customer Satisfaction Index. Traverse the Bayley journey and unveil how they can morph your dealership dynamics at 🔗 www.getbayley.com.

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Takeaways

Quote

“It's not always about pay. Sometimes it's about just showing appreciation for your technicians.” -Ryan Else

Connect:

Ryan Else

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-else-63144a140

Website: www.eidemotors.com

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl

Website: www.partsedge.com

Bob Ghent is the Dealer Principal and Owner of Ghent Chevrolet. His journey from the car wash to owning the dealership demonstrates his deep commitment to the automotive industry and the Northern Colorado community, emphasizing not just business success but also civic involvement and quality service​.

Bob Ghent from Ghent Motors uncovered the remarkable story of their dealership–a legacy spanning over three generations. From its humble beginnings in 1942, Ghent Motors has weathered numerous adversities and emerged as a thriving Chevrolet and Cadillac dealership in Greeley, Colorado.

Bob Ghent's insight into the history and evolution of the dealership shed light on the challenges faced by automotive businesses over the years. One of the most engaging aspects of the conversation was Bob's firsthand account of navigating through the unprecedented times of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resilience and innovation that propelled Ghent Motors to a record year despite the challenges.

He also discussed the pivotal role of effective parts management in the dealership's success. This led to the partnership with PartsEdge, providing them with comprehensive support for inventory optimization, compliance, and strategic decision-making.

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This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Their strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com.

This show is Sponsored by:

Fixed Ops Marketing: Dive into a world of amplified profitability with their comprehensive marketing solutions. From viral video marketing to robust support for service departments, they’ve got your marketing needs covered. Their services encompass SEO, dealer-branded video content, automation, and social media marketing. Discover how Fixed Ops Marketing can enhance your business today by visiting 🔗 www.fixedopsmarketing.com.

Bayley: Unlock operational finesse with Bayley’s Automated Vehicle & Key Tracking solutions. Streamline your Lot Management, Recon, and Fixed Ops. Their ingenious solutions are tailored to inject efficiency, fuel sales acceleration, and elevate your Customer Satisfaction Index. Traverse the Bayley journey and unveil how they can morph your dealership dynamics at 🔗 www.getbayley.com.

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Takeaways

Quote

“There's the tech side of it that comes into it to make sure that the parts are in stock, and PartsEdge helps us with that.” -Bob Ghent

Connect:

Bob Ghent

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bob-ghent-b905035

Website: www.ghentmotors.com

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl

Website: www.partsedge.com

Cory Scheer is the Founder and CEO of TrustCentric™ Consulting, an organizational and leadership development firm. TrustCentric™ helps leaders, teams, and organizations become more trustworthy, focused, and productive by: using empirical evidence to define reality, implementing a proven trust building framework, and walking alongside clients to develop clear, obtainable, and long lasting data informed strategies for success.

Cory Scheer and Kaylee Felio delved into the importance of trust in the workplace and how it can impact employee loyalty and customer experience. Cory shares insights from his experiences working with various organizations, including dealerships, and offers practical advice on assessing and addressing trust gaps in the workplace. 

He also provides an overview of the structure of trust framework and explains why taking proactive action on trust matters. Whether you're a leader, manager, or employee, this episode promises valuable insights on how trust impacts organizational success. 

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This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Their strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com.

This show is Sponsored by:

Fixed Ops Marketing: Dive into a world of amplified profitability with their comprehensive marketing solutions. From viral video marketing to robust support for service departments, they’ve got your marketing needs covered. Their services encompass SEO, dealer-branded video content, automation, and social media marketing. Discover how Fixed Ops Marketing can enhance your business today by visiting 🔗 www.fixedopsmarketing.com.

Bayley: Unlock operational finesse with Bayley’s Automated Vehicle & Key Tracking solutions. Streamline your Lot Management, Recon, and Fixed Ops. Their ingenious solutions are tailored to inject efficiency, fuel sales acceleration, and elevate your Customer Satisfaction Index. Traverse the Bayley journey and unveil how they can morph your dealership dynamics at 🔗 www.getbayley.com.

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Takeaways

Quote

“It's when we begin to take action on trust that we start to see positive changes.” -Cory Scheer

Connect:

Cory Scheer

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/coryscheer

Book: www.trustcentricconsulting.com/book

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl

Website: www.partsedge.com

Jeff Denis is the Parts Manager at Marcotte Ford with over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry. Jeff's background as a technician also provided him with valuable knowledge of cars and parts, giving him a strong foundation to build on as he found his way in the parts industry.

Jeff shares his journey from being a technician to a service advisor, and finally to his current role in parts management. He discusses the challenges and rewards of being a parts manager, and provides valuable insights into the intricacies of managing inventory, handling wholesale operations, and navigating manufacturer programs. 

Jeff's experience sheds light on the often-underestimated complexities of the parts department, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the role of a parts manager. 

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This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Their strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com.

This show is Sponsored by:

Fixed Ops Marketing: Dive into a world of amplified profitability with their comprehensive marketing solutions. From viral video marketing to robust support for service departments, they’ve got your marketing needs covered. Their services encompass SEO, dealer-branded video content, automation, and social media marketing. Discover how Fixed Ops Marketing can enhance your business today by visiting 🔗 www.fixedopsmarketing.com.

Bayley: Unlock operational finesse with Bayley’s Automated Vehicle & Key Tracking solutions. Streamline your Lot Management, Recon, and Fixed Ops. Their ingenious solutions are tailored to inject efficiency, fuel sales acceleration, and elevate your Customer Satisfaction Index. Traverse the Bayley journey and unveil how they can morph your dealership dynamics at 🔗 www.getbayley.com.

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Takeaways

Quote

“When we have the sources set up properly, all the pricing is worked out.” -Jeff Denis

Connect:

Jeff Denis

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-denis-a9a25464

Website: www.marcotteford.com

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl
Website: www.partsedge.com

Allie Peters is the Vice President of Service of the Cavender Auto Group, known for her dynamic leadership and innovative approach in the automotive industry. Her career, marked by a rapid rise from Service Advisor to a key executive role, reflects her dedication to service excellence and team-driven success.

Allie Peters shares insights into her new position from being only a Fixed Ops Director of one store to being VP of Service of multiple stores. She also discusses the importance of proactively demonstrating strengths and creating opportunities for growth. She then emphasizes the significance of setting clear standards and helping others achieve their full potential. 

Allie's determination to prioritize personal wellness and health is also highlighted, as she shares her plans to maintain consistency in these areas. Join us as we delve into Allie's career journey, the importance of having a supportive network, and the exciting plans she has for the coming year.

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This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Their strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com.

This show is Sponsored by:

Fixed Ops Marketing: Dive into a world of amplified profitability with their comprehensive marketing solutions. From viral video marketing to robust support for service departments, they’ve got your marketing needs covered. Their services encompass SEO, dealer-branded video content, automation, and social media marketing. Discover how Fixed Ops Marketing can enhance your business today by visiting 🔗 www.fixedopsmarketing.com.

Bayley: Unlock operational finesse with Bayley’s Automated Vehicle & Key Tracking solutions. Streamline your Lot Management, Recon, and Fixed Ops. Their ingenious solutions are tailored to inject efficiency, fuel sales acceleration, and elevate your Customer Satisfaction Index. Traverse the Bayley journey and unveil how they can morph your dealership dynamics at 🔗 www.getbayley.com.

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Takeaways

Quote

“Have someone in your corner telling you that you're capable of it.” -Allie Peters

Connect:

Allie Peters

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/allie-peters-b3497322

Website: www.cavenderautogroup.com

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl

Website: www.partsedge.com