After only a short break, John White, former President and CEO of the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association (CADA), has rejoined the auto industry, and is taking a role as National Director of Business Development for First Canadian Financial Group.
White officially stepped down from his role as head of CADA in August after three and a half years, and relocated back to his native Montreal, Que. He handed over the reins of CADA to Tim Reuss, a former CEO of Mercedes-Benz Canada.
“I took some time off for some rest and relaxation,” said White in an interview with Canadian auto dealer. “My intention was always to continue working in the automotive business.”
White said he has worked with dealers in some capacity for most of his career. “I thought this opportunity was the best fit. Not only for me, but for First Canadian,” he said.
White said he likes the company’s professional way of doing business, and they have great relationships and a strong culture. “I like the fact that they are owned and operated by dealers,” said White. “They know first hand where the hot button opportunities are with dealers.”
In his new position White will work closely with Dale Manton, Vice President of Business Development, and the group’s regional teams to develop new business opportunities for the company. He is expected to help First Canadian plant strong roots in the province of Quebec.
“We are very excited about having John on our team,” said Dale Manton in an interview with Canadian auto dealer. “He brings a tremendous amount of respect from the dealer world. John’s experience working with dealers and for dealers aligns perfectly with our philosophy,” said Manton. “It’s going to be a great partnership.”
White says his role at CADA gave him insights into the disruptions and changes affecting the auto retail industry, including F&I, and those perspectives will help him in his new role. “Having the OEM perspective doesn’t hurt either,” said White. “It helps to know how the OEMs are thinking and approaching all aspects of the business, including the F&I business.”
“For me, to help them not only nationally, but spend a lot of my time in Quebec was a good approach,” said White, who is fully bilingual. “I will work on helping develop the F&I business,” said White. “My role at CADA enabled me to meet a lot of dealers around the country. I’d like to think I have credibility in the business.”
Another asset for White will be the strong relationships he established with the provincial dealer associations across the country, and notably within Quebec. “We can’t underestimate the role of the provincial associations,” he said. “I have been fortunate to enjoy positive relationships with provincial dealer associations across the country and I look forward to working with each of them as well.”
Manton said the company also provides extensive support and sponsorships for provincial dealer associations at various events.
Prior to working with the association, White spent more than twenty years with the Volkswagen Group in various international roles — including as President and Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Australia and President and CEO of Volkswagen Group Canada. He also held positions as Director of Sales Operations with Volkswagen of America and Region Manager of Volkswagen Credit Canada, among others.
