AMBASSADORSHIP
For extraordinary service to the community and the industry
Danny Brackett, Brackett Auto Group, Orangeville, ON
Most important success factor: The most important factors that led to my success in the automotive retail business are my discipline and drive — I love coming to work! At 23 years old I applied to be a salesperson. One of the questions on the application was “what are future goals?” I answered “to be a GM dealer.” I strive to be the best at what I do and am most competitive with myself. I love being challenged and am always looking to improve and be better. When your drive and discipline are aligned, as mine are, it is much easier to reach your goals. This mindset combined with my passion for vehicles and people, has continually pushed me to succeed. In addition, a few key mentors provided valuable advice and support throughout my career. Their mentorship has helped to guide me but also showed me the importance of maintaining relationships within the industry.
What I like most about the business: The people, the vehicles, and the fact that every day presents a new opportunity for improvement are what I love most about the automotive retail business. The automotive retail business never stays static; it is constantly changing, and we can always be better than we were yesterday. In addition, I personally love to watch my people win — developing my people and seeing them succeed is incredibly gratifying.
Kevin Sharfe, Sherwood Chevrolet, Saskatoon, SK
Most important success factor: As a third-generation dealer, I grew up with several role models. At the forefront is my dad, whose impact in the automotive industry has inspired me to grow as a dealer. I am guided by his measured approach to problem solving and his forward-thinking in business development. Both of my parents instilled my firm belief in philanthropy and community service, and I believe those principles are foundational to the culture of a successful dealership. Lastly, my colleagues have been instrumental in the success of the dealership and my achievements as a dealer. I am grateful to work with a team of talented individuals whose skills and abilities far exceed the challenges they face daily.
What I like most about the business: It’s about the people for me. The interpersonal relationships that are developed on the sales floor or at a managers meeting are what I love most about the car business. As a dealer, I believe my role is best served nurturing those relationships and providing a collaborative and inclusive work environment that’s built to achieve retail excellence. Listening, investing, and developing, all circle back to the people I work with and the customers we serve.
Robert Verwey, Owasco Auto Group, Whitby, ON
Most important success factor: The most important factor that led to my success in the automotive retail business is a combination of dedication, passion for cars, and strong people skills. The most valuable asset in a dealership is its people, and ensuring everyone is aligned towards success is crucial. I’ve been fortunate to have the guidance of exceptional individuals, including those at VW and Audi, fellow dealers, and members of MVRO. Without a great team, success is impossible. Staying on top of trends, such as effective marketing strategies and building long-lasting relationships with customers and suppliers, has also been key. Attending NADA annually helps me stay updated on the latest industry advancements. By consistently delivering exceptional service to both co-workers and customers and committing to providing honest value and direction, we’ve achieved success. And most importantly, I truly love what I do.
What I like most about the business: What I love most about the automotive retail business is the dynamic environment and the opportunity to see coworkers grow, stay with us for decades, and eventually retire. I cherish the relationships with cars, people, and organizations like MVRO and CADA. Despite the tough days, the chance to give back and continuously improve keeps me passionate. Celebrating milestones, like retiring our fifth coworker of over 40 years, is incredibly rewarding.
Jim Williamson, Williamson Auto Group, Uxbridge, ON
Most important success factor: As a third-generation car dealer, the most important factor that has led to our success is the deep-rooted commitment to supporting and giving back to our small, local community — a value passed down through the generations before me. That consistent community involvement has built a loyal customer base we’re truly thankful for; their trust and support have been instrumental in shaping our brand into what it is today. Equally important is the exceptional team I have the privilege to work with every day. Their dedication, work ethic, and shared values are the engine behind our success. Without a team that puts in the level of care and effort that they do; our business simply wouldn’t be where it is. Our success has always been, and continues to be, about people.
What I like most about the business: What I love most about the automotive retail business is the people — those I work with and those we serve. It’s not about the cars; it’s the fast pace, the ever-changing environment, and the mix of structure with constant challenge and excitement. I also value how this business allows us to get engrained in the community and creates opportunities to give back and make a real difference where we live and work.
BUSINESS INNOVATION
For initiatives that significantly enhance performance or broaden the scope of business
John Brushett, Moncton Honda, Moncton, NB
Most important success factor: The most important factor in my success in the automotive retail business would quite simply be “Drive.” I didn’t come from a privileged background and had no post-secondary education when I started in the business some 40 years ago. I did, however, have an insatiable drive to learn, succeed and be in full control of my own career destiny. I always endeavoured to outwork those around me to get “noticed” so I could advance my career goals. In 1991, I secured an equity buyout position as Dealer Principal of Moncton Honda. Now my Drive took on another dimension, as I not only had to outwork my competitors in my market but I needed to drive myself to become a business innovator. I tasked myself with embracing a world of change that would navigate my dealership to always be on the cutting edge. I have tried to pass on this Drive to my management team and my children. Indeed, it is the single most important ingredient to any success in life, whether it be business or personal.
What I like most about the business: Allowing me to provide a great life for me and my family and the fulfillment of being able to give back to my community in meaningful ways are just a few of the things I truly love about the auto business. The inclusive opportunity this business provides, delivers an equal opportunity to anyone who has the drive and entrepreneurial spirit to push themselves to be the best that they can be knowing that the only limits to success are those you put upon yourself. It is one of the last bastions of pure entrepreneurial business, where a young person armed with passionate vision and drive can propel themselves to limitless success in the industry!
John Hairabedian, HGrégoire Auto Group, Saint-Eustache, QC
Most important success factor: HGrégoire has innovated many automotive industry practices by offering consumers quality vehicles at competitive prices, allowing it to stand out in Quebec, Florida, and even California. Innovation, transparency, and family are at the heart of HGrégoire’s values and have always contributed to the company’s success. These values are reflected in our human-centered approach. For us, customer service goes beyond the transaction: it’s about building lasting relationships of trust. Furthermore, developing talent within the company has been essential to delivering superior service and creating leadership in each of our dealerships. We place great importance on innovations that were developed internally, which is why we encourage internal promotions to retain expertise within our team.
What I like most about the business: What I value most about the automotive retail business is the opportunity to transform the purchase of a car into a positive and rewarding experience for our customers. HGregoire goes beyond simply being a place to acquire a quality vehicle at a competitive price; it’s above all a place where the customer experience is paramount.
David McQuilkin, Milton Ford Lincoln, Milton, ON
Most important success factor: The number one factor to success is putting together the right team and having a common vision through constant communication. Communicating constantly and creating a common vision which is customer focus leads to success. Happy and rewarded employees lead to happy customers.
What I like most about the business: There are three things I truly love about being an automotive retailer. First it’s providing great automotive consultation, matching the right vehicle to suit a client’s needs. Second would be watching our team advance in their own careers and personal goals as they purchase a house and raise a family. Lastly is being in a position to help the community through our charitable giving and support. I call it the “circle of love”, we have a social responsibility to support the community which supports our business.
Gerry Wood, Wood Auto Group, Calgary, AB
Most important success factor: Be innovative and be ready to work hard. Foster good relationships and be able to provide exceptional customer service.
What I like most about the business: The great people that I work with and the tremendous customers and colleagues that I have met and had the opportunity to know over the years. They have brought great meaning to my life.
RETAIL OPERATIONS
For outstanding achievement within an individual dealership
Meghan Ruffilli, Courtesy Ford Lincoln, London, ON
Most important success factor: The most important factor that led to my success in the automotive retail business is the strength of the relationships built — with my family, our amazing team and our community. My family’s unwavering support provided the foundation and motivation to persevere through challenges, while our dedicated team brought passion, expertise, and a shared commitment to excellence. Together, we cultivated a culture of trust, accountability, and continuous improvement. By treating every team member like family and every customer with genuine care, we created lasting loyalty and a strong reputation. Success wasn’t just about sales and service — it was about people.
What I like most about the business: What I love most about the automotive retail business is combining my passion for sales with the challenge of a fast-paced, ever-evolving environment. It’s incredibly rewarding because success requires hard work, adaptability, and resilience. I also enjoy working within people’s strengths, helping my team grow and achieve their goals. Seeing our collective efforts turn into real results makes every challenge worthwhile and reminds me why I love what I do.
Mathieu LeClair, Subaru Rive-Nord, Boisbriand, QC
Most important success factor: The main factor driving our success in automotive retail is our human approach, both with our teams and our customers. While Subaru is an exceptional brand, renowned for the reliability of its vehicles, it’s our internal culture that makes all the difference. We rely on stable, loyal, and committed teams, many of whom have been with us for many years. By treating them with respect and providing a positive work environment, we foster exceptional customer service. This approach has directly contributed to our customer loyalty. Furthermore, our strategy of optimizing leasing rather than traditional financing allows for faster customer returns, which supports the continued growth of our dealership. Our success is therefore based on a combination of an excellent product, human service, and a thoughtful strategy.
What I like most about the business: What I love most about automotive retail is the human relationships — both with our customers and our staff. It’s a dynamic environment where you can see the tangible results of your efforts. I enjoy seeing our progress, measuring our performance, and always striving for improvement. This combination of human relationships and constant challenges makes this job both motivating and rewarding.
Eric O’Sullivan, Sherwood Park Chevrolet, Sherwood Park, AB
Most important success factor: When I began selling cars about 20 years ago, I was excited to learn that you could excel in this industry the right way: by working hard, with integrity and building trust with the consumer. Fast forward a few years and I was equally as excited when I recognized that these same fundamentals applied in management. What I realized was that growing a strong business culture required foundatios of relationships, connection and trust with your employees. When you demonstrate these things, employees work extremely hard for you and together achieve unprecedented success. When employees are loved and cared for, they will return that same care and respect to each customer, as well as their fellow employees. We have so many incredible stories surrounding our staff and customers that have helped create such a rewarding growth culture for us, I am truly proud of each and every one.
What I like most about the business: I absolutely love the fact that automotive retail has no limitations on who can be successful in it, and I think that’s part of what makes it so special. There are so many layers of success in our business, the industry creates a unique opportunity for anyone who begins an automotive journey. I truly love watching and being a small part of life changing goals that get achieved for many people month after month.
Adam Toner, Township Chevrolet Buick GMC, Summerside, PE
Most important success factor: Being willing to work hard, always staying thirsty to learn and do more, and being coachable. It’s an honour to be recognized by your peers. Our industry has many great operators.
What I like most about the business: The business moves fast, it’s constantly changing, and no matter how much technology affects things in the future, the car business one way or the other, will forever be a people business. The relationships built with your co-workers, customers, vendors, and other dealers make it a wonderful business to be in.
