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Blake, Used Car Director at Wish Automotive: Advize Career Interview
A career in used car management offers a dynamic and rewarding path, as evidenced by Blake's journey at Wish Automotive. A summer sales job ignited an interest, leading to deep involvement in the industry.
The role demands constant market analysis, relationship building, and exceptional organizational skills.
Inventory management and accurate forecasting are critical, but the rewards include early market insights and a diverse professional network.
While demanding—a 24/7 commitment—success requires proactive work habits, early starts, and prioritizing the job. A college degree isn't essential; a sales role and administrative experience can provide the necessary foundation.
Networking, persistent questioning, and a commitment to organization are keys to success in this exciting and fast-paced field.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Blake Wishengrad
Used Car Director
Wish Automotive
University Of Colorado at Boulder 2013
no graduate programs
Anthropology, Sociology
Automotive & Auto Parts
Sales and Client Management
None Applicable
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Career Path of a Used Car Director at Wish Automotive
Blake's career path began with summer sales jobs at car dealerships, sparking an interest in the used car process. A trip to the Manheim Auto Auction with a used car director solidified this interest, with Blake stating, "from right then and there, I knew this was something interesting," leading to their focus on and growth within the used car industry.
Main Responsibilities of a Used Car Director at Wish Automotive
Blake's main responsibility as Used Car Director at Wish Automotive is "inventory management," requiring constant market analysis using resources like Kelly Blue Book to forecast values and ensure profitability by balancing sales, wholesaling, and preventing losses. This demonstrates expertise in navigating market trends to optimize inventory and maximize returns for the company.
A Day In The Life Of A Used Car Director At Wish Automotive
A used car director's day begins early with "a lot of phone calls and emails from people...trying to sell cars," primarily wholesalers and rental companies. The role also involves significant inventory management, including physically verifying vehicle condition to inform purchasing decisions based on "price points and trends."
Most Important Skills for a Used Car Director at Wish Automotive
Blake, Wish Automotive's Used Car Director, emphasizes the importance of "building relationships, communication, and forming trust" in the used car industry. These skills are crucial for sourcing vehicles and maintaining a "healthy and clean inventory," requiring collaboration with many people.
Favorite Parts of Being a Used Car Director at Wish Automotive
Blake's favorite aspect of being Used Car Director at Wish Automotive is the diverse network of people the role allows Blake to meet, building relationships with "a lot of different people...in this industry" and beyond. These connections, Blake suggests, are a significant benefit extending beyond the workplace.
Biggest Challenges Faced by a Used Car Director at Wish Automotive
Blake, Wish Automotive's Used Car Director, identifies inaccurate forecasting as the biggest challenge in their role, citing the inevitability of "buying cars that are at the wrong values" and "cars that didn't sell," ultimately requiring them to "take the blame for that responsibility." This reveals the high-stakes nature of used car inventory management and the personal accountability inherent in the position.
Favorite Parts Of Working In The Automotive Industry As A Used Car Director
Blake, Wish Automotive's Used Car Director, enjoys the transferable skills, stating that the industry's use of "sales and market data" applies to other life aspects. The most rewarding aspect is gaining "an insight first thing on the market before most people do," allowing Blake to anticipate broader economic trends by observing automotive market shifts.
What Type of Person Thrives in the Used Car Industry, According to a Used Car Director at Wish Automotive
Success in the used car industry hinges on organization, proactive work habits—starting the day early and maintaining accessibility—and a willingness to prioritize the job, as Blake, Wish Automotive's Used Car Director, explains, emphasizing that those who "put this first before other things" are most likely to thrive. The most successful individuals are highly organized and readily available.
What a Used Car Director at Wish Automotive Wishes They Had Known Before Entering the Car Industry
Blake, Wish Automotive's Used Car Director, reveals the industry's demanding nature, stating the job is "24/7," requiring constant market awareness and responsiveness. The role also involves shouldering significant blame for sales and inventory issues, highlighting the importance of accepting responsibility.
Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring Used Car Directors At Wish Automotive
Blake, the Used Car Director at Wish Automotive, shared that a college degree isn't strictly required to enter the used car field, suggesting a start in sales at age 18 to "get a grasp on cars". Further career progression involves becoming a "clerk coworker", focusing on paperwork and processing within the used car department.
Significant Career Lesson From a Used Car Director at Wish Automotive
Blake, Wish Automotive's Used Car Director, emphasizes the importance of staying organized as a crucial life and career lesson, stating that "life's not that hard if you stay organized." This organizational skill significantly improved Blake's ability to manage the complexities of the used car industry, as evidenced by the numerous folders visible in the interview background.
College Experiences That Helped A Used Car Director At Wish Automotive Succeed
To prepare for a career in the auto industry, Blake sought advice from a sibling already working in the field, demonstrating proactive networking. This involved persistent questioning until Blake fully understood the necessary steps, highlighting the importance of "ask[ing] a lot of questions" to achieve career goals.
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