Inventory Manager

over 60 years of service, Walser Automotive Group is a pioneer in the automotive industry. Walser’s progressive commitment to growth, technology, and a differentiated customer experience has changed the car-buying journey. We don’t follow; we innovate and lead. Walser operates 26 dealerships and many affiliated businesses throughout Minnesota, Kansas, and Illinois. Walser also leads by example in the community, with over 1,000 hours volunteered annually. In addition, the Walser Foundation donates 5% of all pre-tax profits back into the community because we live here, too.  Walser is a family-owned, family-run business. We’re committed to delivering an outstanding customer experience every time – that’s what drives us. That’s the Walser Way.

Walser’s Core Values

• Do The Right Thing – Nothing is worth compromising a relationship
• Lead By Example – Be willing to help no matter how difficult the challenge
• Display Positive Energy – A good attitude is highly contagious
• Be Open Minded – The only thing that is constant is change

Job Duties (Will Include but Not Be Limited To)

• Use all available sources including online and physical auctions, craigslist, curb buy, etc.  to select used vehicles for purchase
• Track purchases through the quality inspection and reconditioning process
• Manage acceptable retainage and gross
• Assist the General Manager and Used Vehicle Director in establishing annual and monthly objectives for unit sales, gross profits, expenses and operating profit for the Used Vehicle department
• Assess and analyze sales portfolios and evaluate sales data and reports
• Attend managerial and pricing meetings as requested, and be able to make recommendations to inventory Management Team for sales and product needs
• Forecast and monitor sales metrics while actively making changes as necessary to ensure goals are met or exceeded
• Work with Sales Managers to set sales and gross objectives and increase F&I penetration
• Coordinate with the marketing team to monitor internet websites daily in order to ensure an accurate display of used inventory
• Review market analyses and sales reports to determine volume potential and necessary variable pricing adjustments weekly
• Maintain close communication with the Variable Pricing Team
• Coordinate in store training that relates to used vehicles
• Motivate, counsel and monitor the performance of all department staff conducting disciplinary action or PIP’s as needed and administer annual performance evaluations for staff with thoughtful feedback
• Appraise staff productivity and efficiency for the purpose of recommending promotions or other changes in status
• Ensure staff completes all required job duties in an accurate and timely manner
• Coordinate with the Recruiting Department to interview and hire department staff
• Ensure that any employee relations issues or concerns are addressed and escalated to HR when necessary
• Monitor and assist in the implementation of company initiatives and legal compliance measures and ensure the communication of company news on a regular basis
• Ensure Walser service processes and scripts are followed by employees
• Train and manage staff in company policies and ensure adherence to all company policies
• Support the career and professional development of staff
• Lead by example and be an advocate for staff
• Must wear safety eyewear at all times when in dealership service departments
• Must wear hard-toed shoes and slip resistant footwear in when in dealership service departments
• Embrace and exhibit Walser CORE values

All other duties, tasks and/or projects as assigned

Expected Direct Reports

• Buyer(s)
• Inventory Coordinator/Specialist
• Lot Technician(s)

Minimum Requirements

• Must have a minimum of 3 years automobile sales experience
• Preferred experience in used vehicle buying or other relevant inventory experience
• Must have the ability to retain crucial information regarding the retail/wholesale vehicle market
• Must be able to make detailed financial decisions within strict timeframes
• Proven organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task, handle frequent interruptions and shifting priorities
• Demonstrated strong and effective oral and written communication skills
• Must have excellent customer service skills
• Must have a positive attitude and work well in a team environment
• Must have a valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record

Physical Demands

• Moving and walking around the dealership
• Sitting, standing, reaching, bending, and lifting
• Utilizing a computer for day-to-day tasks and electronic technology required by OEMs
• Certain areas of the dealership environmental demands may include noise, vibration, paint, dust, exhaust fumes, other hazardous and non-hazardous materials, extreme heat and/or cold
• Driving vehicles