To continue the momentum started by our Women in Remarketing and Women in Auto Finance franchises, Auto Remarketing has launched Women in Retail, an awards program that specifically recognizes leaders on the retail side of the auto industry.
This inaugural class of honorees is spotlighted in the July 1 issue of Auto Remarketing, which includes Q&As with each recipient of the award.
Next up is Holly M. Vollant, C.A.R, who is the business development manager at CarLotz.
Auto Remarketing: What was your career path to the retail auto industry? Did you always see yourself in this line of work?
Holly M. Vollant: I never thought that I would be in the retail auto industry. Ten years ago, I took a chance and helped a friend out by accepting a position at a local auction. I was fortunate enough to grow through that experience working in dealer and fleet sales and then national remarketing, which paved the way to my current position at CarLotz. Retail remarketing has been the greatest adventure and most fulfilling time in my career, so 10 years after my journey began, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
AR: What’s a typical day like in your job? (if there is such a thing as “typical!”)
Holly M. Vollant
HMV: As the business development manager for CarLotz, I don’t have a typical day, but that is what I love the most about this industry and retail remarketing. Every day presents new challenges, experiences and opportunities for growth. I have the opportunity to work with our growing CarLotz team at eight locations in five states, our national footprint of commercial consignors and meet with new prospects that want to utilize the CarLotz platform. The one constant in my day is working with an amazing team that is focused on providing the best retail experience that we can for our guests who are consigning and buying vehicles.
AR: What is a book you have read that has influenced or helped your career?
HMV: “Make Your Bed,” by Admiral William H. McRaven. In it, Admiral McRaven explains that “If you want to change the world … start off by making your bed.” This book is mandatory reading in my house, and I believe everyone should take the time to read it. It is a great reminder that changing the world can happen anywhere, and anyone can do it. The little things in life matter the most. If you can’t do the little things right, you will never be able to do the big things right.
AR: Who is a leader, outside of the auto industry, that you admire and why?
HMV: Doug Pederson, head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles. He is a player’s coach who isn’t afraid to take a chance on what he believes in. To him, leadership is about cultivating relationships and building a high-performance culture. These are critical keys to creating a winning organization, no matter the team or business.
AR: What advice would you have for someone just starting out in retail automotive?
HMV: Always do the right thing. Be patient, honest and stay ambitious. Embrace change. Seize every opportunity to learn more about the industry. As we are growing and changing rapidly as an industry, it is critical that we engage ambitious committed individuals who want to make their mark on the industry. Be one of those people.
Source : AutoFinanceNews
