STEP JONES

Automotive Professional looking for the right opportunity

Please see the end of the page for some great audio and worksheets!

New Audio added 12/23/08

Los Angeles, California 91403

 

Competent with character, I have handled the most demanding customers, and lead the most diverse associates during my career. Developing new sales strategies changing the way automobiles are sold and marketed, along with increasing fixed operations and increasing customer satisfaction.

 

A two-time winner of BMW’s “Center of Excellence” award in a store that no one thought (including the factory) would ever achieve at Beverly Hills BMW, and has not happened again since I left.  I have also won Delta Trends most prestigious award for associate satisfaction, again in one of the most, if not the most diverse environments, one of only sixteen out of thousands. 

 

An innovative strategic analyst, my contributions have been instrumental in substantially increasing profits, productivity, and performance for multi-million and multi-billion dollar organizations.  Optimizing all aspects of operations, I have designed and implemented numerous successful programs and plans that have led regions and stores to the top industry ranks.  Building successful management teams, conducting high-impact presentations, and delivering powerful and motivational internal and external presentations, I will be a valuable asset to your company.

 

I have lead teams in down markets; from 1981 where we achieved a 236% increase from the previous year.  In down markets of the 90’s we had increases every year.  In the doldrums of the early 2000’s I lead a team to new sales and service records.  In 2007 I lead a team in service, parts and body shop, which was broken, losing money, employees were leaving in droves, customers quit coming.  I had to staff, regain customer satisfaction and confidence. The national vice-president of fixed operations said, “We gave you a problem child at Cadillac and you fixed it.  I appreciate your efforts.”  

 

Are you in need of a stem-winder?

 

This from Standards of Excellence this year:

“Step is one of the most effective Managers I have worked with in my career as a Facilitator/Consultant. He stepped into his role at Lou Ehlers Cadillac during a time of employee mayhem and uncertainty after recently being under new ownership. Step quickly gained the respect of employees and began changing a volatile internal culture very quickly. He found ways to increase sales in a downward trending marketplace and has proven that customer satisfaction and company profit are not mutually exclusive. Through his hard work and purposeful management style, he led his team to achieve goals that had not been reached in quite some time. His work has been a major factor in the dealership’s success and I respect him greatly. I believe he would be a tremendous asset to any organization.” May 16, 2008

Michelle Chiappetta, SFE Facilitator, Maritz

 

Some examples of highlights throughout my career are:

 

·       Launching an underperforming Sonic region to #1 ranking in net-to-gross and EBIT profits enterprise-wide.

·       Generating an over 200% increase in sales for Sonic during down-market trend years.

·       Securing more than 100% in sales continually and to date for Sonic in a current down market.

·       Cultivating Rusnak/Westlake’s operation, becoming the 1^st store to receive JP Power’s Award for Excellence.

·       Receiving numerous awards, honors, and accolades for outstanding performance, contributions, and leadership.

 

"Step Jones is truly a world class leader."

Jeff Rachor, Former Sonic Automotive president.

"Step Jones is an outstanding leader, when he left our organization his ideas and concepts stayed with us until I retired in January of this year.  He lead us to higher sales and profits and professionalism while he was with us."

David Pierce, President Rusnak/Westlake.

“When I was with Sonic Automotive as the Regional Vice President, Step Jones was the General Manager at Beverly Hills BMW. Step was the number one General manager in my region every month. He was the most professional and profitable General Manager I had. Step was self motivated, self contained in managing and controlling his business responsibility to the level of constant top shelf return on investment both in the monetary and human arenas.” April 22, 2008

Steve Kinney, Regional Vice President, Sonic Automotive

“At the time I worked with Step I was the Western Divisional Controller for Sonic Automotive. Step was a GM who got it done. He did not need to be pushed or prodded to get results...he did what needed to be done and when it needed to be done. Step was an independent thinker which is nice to see in our corporate environment. I enjoyed working with Step.” May 11, 2008

Todd Pals , Regional Controller , Sonic Automotive

“The truth is that Step Jones is a very competent, intelligent, progressively thinking and goal oriented person with good judgment and ethics. One of his biggest strengths is that he is an experienced and effective leader, yet a humanitarian. Much of his success can be attributed to his excellent communication skills and ability to see the big picture. Step Jones would be an asset to any organization.” May 28, 2008

Collin Crews , President , Mr. Excitement Sales Promotions

“I am pleased to recommend Step Jones based upon my and my company's experience in working with him and benefiting from his leadership and business skills. Step has been instrumental in Vogue Tyre & Rubber Company's success as a business partner with Lou Ehlers Cadillac in Los Angeles. We have found him to be a dynamic leader and team builder with a strong ability to build consensus among his employees. His consistent, professional demeanor creates a workplace culture in which employees are empowered to perform their daily duties within clearly defined criteria. His positive attitude is infectious and permeates through all levels of employees in the organization. Step treats his employees and business partners with respect, which leads to an atmosphere of mutual cooperation and accountability. I am pleased to have Step as a customer and business partner, and hope to have the opportunity to work with him for many years to come. Sincerely, Greg Hathcock President Vogue Tyre & Rubber Company” May 29, 2008

Greg Hathcock , President , Vogue Tyre & Rubber Company

“Step is a polished professional. His extensive knowledge of the auto indutsry and drive to help others develop combine to make him a great choice for any General Manager opening.” August 10, 2008

Al Babbington , CEO , Auto Town

I was with Sonic Automotive from 12/97 to 9/04 in general manager and regional manager positions. From 9/04 until 2/06 I developed my own company for coaching.  I was invited back to Sonic Automotive by Mr. Jeff Rachor, then president of Sonic Automotive were I stayed in a GM position from 2/06 until 6/08.

From 10/93 until 12/97 I was the GSM of Rusnak/Westlake BMW, Audi, and Porsche franchises. 

Strategic Planning · Business Development · Asset & Resource Allocation · Tactical Relationships

Leadership · Cost Reductions · Performance Improvements · Negotiations · Writing · Presentations

Business & Expense Model Design · Sales & Marketing · Team Building · Talent Management

 

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Regional Vice President & General Manager 12/97--9/04, 2/06--6/08

Direct and lead all aspects of daily operations, collaborating with COO to develop and launch strategic revenue growth and marketing plans for $250M sales region with $35M in service and parts revenue. Analyze SG&A, identifying cost saving opportunities. Monitor receivables, ensuring up-to-date data. Approve asset acquisitions. Co-chair numerous meetings on sales, service, parts, finance and various disciplines. Interface with all manufacturers including BMW, Cadillac, Volvo, Honda, Lexus and Chrysler-Jeep. Evaluate and modify policies and procedures. Act as moderator and chairman of company’s BMW Dealer “20” group. Supervise 30 direct reports and 450 associates.

Major Contributions:

·       Launched underperforming region to #1 in net-to-gross and EBIT profits enterprise-wide.

·       Increased profitability and enhanced organizational success, strategically directing region.

·       Improved productivity significantly, implementing comprehensive training and top grading.

·       Instrumental in designing national sales program, delivering high-impact ideas and contributions.

Sales Highlights:

·       Generated over 200% increase in sales during down-market trend years.

·       Secured more than 100% in sales continually and to date in down market.

Awards & Honors:

·       Elected Beverly Hills Executive of the Year by Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce.

·       Won BMW’s Center of Excellence Award 2-times, establishing region as 1 of top dealers in country in sales volume; less than 8% of national dealers to receive honor, BMW’s highest award for customer satisfaction.

·       Attained Delta Trends ESI Tracker Award for Excellence in Employee Satisfaction and Loyalty, 1 in 16 of over 1,000 national dealerships; Delta Trend’s Highest Award.

·       Honored with numerous additional awards from BMW of North America and Sonic Automotive for exceptional performance and customer satisfaction.

LIFE MOTIVATIONS, Beverly Hills, California · 09/2004 – 02/2006

Provider of life coaching and motivational consultation.

President

Delivered expert consultation to various clients. Oversaw production of motivational materials including CDs and DVDs. Composed books. Managed 10-staff.

Major Contributions and Highlights:

·       Pioneered and established successful firm and product lines.

·       Advised Fortune 500 companies on techniques to refine and enhance executives’, sales’, leaders’, and managers’ performance.

·       Authored 2 books, on achieving success, generating impressive sales.

·       Wrote and produced comprehensive sales and management videos.

 

RUSNAK/WESTLAKE, Los Angeles, California · 10/1992 – 12/1997

Retailer of BMW, Porsche, and Audi automotives with $60M in annual sales.

 

General Sales Manager

Oversaw all aspects of inventory, marketing, and personnel for 1,200+ unit store. Directed all sales activities. Supervised 25 staff.

 

Major Contributions and Highlights:

·       Formulated and launched strategies to increase profits and reduce costs.

·       Cultivated operation, becoming 1^st store to receive JP Powers Award for Excellence.

 

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy

University of California, La Jolla, California

PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS MEMBERSHIPS

Economic Development Council, Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce

Market Advisory Committee, BMW of North America

Beverly Hills Rotary

BOARDS OF DIRECTORS

Greater Los Angeles New Car Dealers Association

BMW’s Southern California Dealer Advertising Association

Maple Counseling Center

Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce

Beverly Hills Rotary

Blind Children’s Center

EARLIER CAREER

Pete Ellis Dodge and Jeep Eagle, South Gate, CA - Sales Manager

William’s Volvo, Buena Park, CA - Dealer Principal and General Manager

Center BMW, Sherman Oaks, CA - General Sales Manager

Poorman-Douglas, Portland, OR - Dealership Sales Consultant

Navarre Cadillac and Oldsmobile, South Bend, IN - Retail Sales and Leasing

“Step was able to improve business performance in a very difficult situation. Employees had left the organization prior to his arrival due to rumors of major changes. He was able to maintain strong performance while filling voids in his business. I would have confidence in his organizational skills and business results in any endeavor.” December 2, 2008

Bill Beasley, rsmm, gm?was with another company when working with Step at Life Motivations

“Step has at all times been the consummate professional with the highest integrity.” November 21, 2008

Gary Coleman, Owner, Goldsmith Systems?worked with Step at Life Motivations

“Step Jones is a very talented dealership manager. I know, because he was my competitor - a very worthy, high-quality, clever competitor. He ran BMW of Beverly Hills at the same time I ran Mercedes-Benz in Beverly Hills. During that time, Step also served on the boards of many of the same non-profit organizations as I. I witnessed him grow the BMW dealership dramatically in sales, quality and reputation. I also had the opportunity to see his organizational abilities and tireless work ethic, on behalf of the dealership and on the various non-profits. I also know Step to be a top quality trainer and an excellent public speaker. Step is highly competent and extremely knowledgeable. More importantly, Step is a very high caliber individual; a man of character, heart, intelligence, entrepreneurial courage and generosity of spirit. I highly recommend him for any endeavor.” November 17, 2008

Stephen Smythe , President , Mercedes Benz of Beverly Hills ?was with another company when working with Step at Life Motivations

“I have had the pleasure of dealing with Step Jones in several aspects of my business and professional career. He was generously involved with his time and leadership in the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce where he helped to grow local business involvement in community development and awareness. Step brought his Beverly Hills BMW dealership to great sales and service success, as well as having it at the forefront of many charitable events in which he helped to raise money and further participation from other local individuals and businesses. In the media buying process, Step brought astuteness and shrewdness both in planning and buying a very efficient schedule time after time. As a customer with him and his dealership, I had the best buying experience ever. I continue to be inspired from his motivation, leadership and human relations skills. Step's midwestern value system is solid and always reliable. In summary, Step helps to make his community more successful, his business more competitive and his fellow employees stronger and performing at higher levels. The business community needs more Step Jones. Brad Greenberg Viamedia 11/15/08” November 16, 2008

Brad Greenberg , Ad Sales , Adelphia Media Services ?was with another company when working with Step at Life Motivation

“Step showed a strong understanding of marketing and advertising his dealership to maximize profits while minimizing expenses. His passion and enthusiasm also make his commercials stand out from the pack. His ability to multi-task his GM duties along with advertising/marketing elements make him a unique asset in the car business.” August 11, 2008

Jim Campanis , Owner , Campy Media, Inc. ?was a consultant or contractor to step at Sonic Automotive

“It is with pleasure that I write this letter of recommendation for Step Jones. Step Jones and I have had the pleasure of working together for Sonic Automotive. During his Employment at Sonic Automotive as GM, he implemented a restructuring of the sales force, markedly increasing sales and reducing expenses, Step implemented training, measurement, and efficiency procedures that significantly strengthened our overall production results I believe he was able to make significant improvements because of his commitment to do so. Step Jones is a great motivator and mentor. The employees in our organization were always inspired and prepared to meet new challenges because of his motivational style of management. Step is a natural born leader. He is confident and decisive. He makes everyone around him better and would be an excellent addition to any company. Arthur M Albanese Parts Manager Lou Ehlers Cadillac” August 10, 2008

Art Albanese , Parts Manager , Low Ehlers Cadillac ?reported to step at Sonic Automotive

“I worked with Step for about 7 years as his Executive Assistant. He was a great boss and is a good person. Although I decided to get out of the automotive business, Step and I are still in touch and he has been a great business reference.” June 16, 2008

Michelle Mead , Administrative Assistant III , Metropolitan Water District ?reported to step at Sonic Automotive

“Step was a long-term board member for our non-profit association representing the new car dealers of Los Angeles County. Step was an invaluable resource for me as executive director and his fellow board members in coming up with innovative ideas to build a strong dealership workforce and also to support important community organizations in greater Los Angeles, such as the Blind Children's Center and the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce. I've been fortunate to witness Step's positive and entrepreneurial approach produce many outstanding results in both his professional and personal life, and I'm sure this "arc of success" will continue throughout his career.” May 28, 2008

Charlie Gill , Exec. Director , Grtr. L.A. New Car Dlrs. ?was a consultant or contractor to step at Sonic Automotive

“I would recommend Step! He is a proven leader and successful businessman He manages people by clearly defining their responsibilities and motivates them to achieve them thru positive motivation and teamwork. He has a proven track record of building his business(s) through relationships and has a heart for giving back to the community and supporting needy causes. Step, is a Winner!” May 28, 2008

Mark Johnson , General Manager , Sonic Automotive ?reported to step at Sonic Automotive 

“Step is the most positive motivated person I know. His work ethic and manager skills are untouchable and because of that he makes everyone around him a lot of money.” May 23, 2008

Paul Percell , UCM , Sonic Automotive ?reported to step at Sonic Automotive

“Step is most difinitely a leader. He gets things done by influence, and his eyes set on the horizon of the store. Step was a great general manager who was active in both sales and service and cared deeply for customer relations, and building a relationship for guests to come back to the store. He was very efficient with things, and effective with people. Step was always empowering people to do better work. Step puts all his efforts into work, and would stay from start to close if he could everyday. Step Jones would be the greatest asset to any company with his positive attidude his energy is felt around the work place. I really enjoyed working for Step.” May 16, 2008

Ashley McMillen , Customer Relations Manager , Crown Lexus ?reported to step at Sonic Automotive

“I have worked closely with Step for over five years. At Beverly Hills BMW, he created a "Gung Ho" culture where every associate felt empowered to contribute to the continued success of the dealership. He demonstrated his exceptional leadership skills when he led his team to record breaking growth and success. We also worked on projects that included Life Motivations Finance Series. It is with much pleasure to recommend Step for any future endeavor.” May 15, 2008

Farnaz Salek , Finance Director , Beverly Hills BMW ?reported to step at Sonic Automotive

“Step is a great leader and motivator. Step is able to think outside of the box as needed to promote good sound business. Step is able to resolve issue's that pop up while performing his task as General Manager. Step has the ability to bring the best out of people due to his strong commitment to life and business. Step is a great asset to any company that is lucky enough to have him as a leader.” May 12, 2008

Frank Roos , Service & Parts Director , Steve Thomas BMW ?reported to step at Sonic Automotive

“Step Jones took a Cadillac Store that had been operating in the RED for months, and in a very short period of time, turned it into one of the most successful franchises in the country! A great people person, motivator, and team builder, Step is also one the true Nice Guys left in the Auto Biz. I would highly recommend him for any position he is seeking. Larry Miceli” May 6, 2008

Larry Miceli , Owner , LM Auto Wholesale ?was with another company when working with step at Sonic Automotive

“Step is highly-evolved leader and has a vast history of successfully managing auto dealerships. He understands clients needs and has a proven track record of maximum profits coupled with highly-rated CSI scores. He is a focused individual who promotes best practices throughout the organization. He is extremely dedicated to his position and to his staff and displays his loyalty on a daily basis. I would recommend him for any Executive Management position.” May 6, 2008

Kathi Kruse , Controller , Beverly Hills BMW ?worked directly with step at Sonic Automotive

“Step, has been one of the most creative senior manger that i have had the opportunity to work with. When you enpower your employees to make decisions it enspires one to give their all to accomplish set goals and objectives. Positive reinforcement with strong leadership example is the key to a successful team effort.” April 26, 2008

Ray Egans , GSM , Lou Ehlers Cadillac ?reported to step at Sonic Automotive

“Step is a strong motivational executive who brings a high level of experience to this postion. He brings out the best in his team. It was a pleasure to work for him.” April 24, 2008

Geoffrey Cockrell , General Sales Manager , Beverly Hills BMW ?reported to step at Sonic Automotive

“Step is a fair and goal oriented manager, he takes great pride in whatever he does, and he is the type of person that if you work for him or with him that you want him as a friend and colleague.” April 23, 2008

Larry Derkum , General Manager , South Bay Chrysler Jeep Dodge ?worked directly with step at Sonic Automotive

“I worked with Step Jones at Beverly Hills BMW when he was the General Manager and I was the Controller and Sonic Regional Controller. He was the top General Manager and and most profitable in our region. He is very professional, self motivated and great to work for.” April 22, 2008

Lilly Natividad , Controller , WI Simonson Mercedes ?worked directly with step at Sonic Automotive 

“Step is a proven leader with a passion for success. Step is a difference maker, he has the ability to motivate and manage people to preform at the highest levels.” June 11, 2008

Mike Frits , Pre Owned Manager , Beverly Hills BMW ?was with another company when working with step at Life Motivations

“I have worked with Step for many years now on almost a dozen transactions. I have always found Step to be extremely sharp and able to view and analyze a situation from all sides. He is cool, calm and collected and prefers to look at issues that arise as challenges rather than problems. His sense of humor and warm personality always serves him and those he deals with well. He is a great conciliator, a respected manager and an asset to every organization that is fortunate to do business with him.” May 6, 2008

Sandy Edelstein , Vice-President - Senior Loan Officer , First Financial Mortgage ?was a consultant or contractor to step at Life Motivations

“Step Jones led a very energetic and fun motivational seminar for nearly 100 sellers from CBS Radio. He spoke with conviction and included several funny and fact based anecdotes that made his time with our group very impactful. I would love to have Step back for an updated full day seminar!” April 24, 2008

Top qualities: Personable , High Integrity , Creative

Dan Weiner ?hired step as a Career Coach in 2007

General Sales Manager at Rusnak Westlake

“It is with great pleasure that I recommend Step Jones to any organization who has the intent of growth and success. At the time I worked with Step, he lead his team with the highest numbers of customer satisfaction along with the greatest growth in the market of car deals. He is a man of great integrity, a born leader and also a stellar individual. I watched him develop and deploy some of the greatest salesmen in my over ten years experience in the business. Anyone who has Step on board will be pleased as he is an asset to any company.” May 11, 2008

Christina Nishimura , Admin Asst , Rusnak Westlake ?worked indirectly for step at Rusnak Westlake