Auto Remarketing is recognizing the 2026 Women in Retail honorees in the July edition of the magazine and will be posting Q&As with each of these outstanding leaders on the website. Next up, in alphabetical order by first name, is Mandy Rushing, director of business development and marketing at Vaden Automotive.

The Women in Retail program is presented by CarGurus.


What prompted/inspired you to join the auto industry and what do you enjoy most about it?
Like many others, the auto industry was never a path I intentionally set out to pursue. I honestly stumbled into it, but quickly fell in love with the pace, the people, and the constant evolution that comes with it. No two days are ever the same, and I thrive in environments where adaptability and problem-solving matter.

What I enjoy most is the organized chaos of it all. The automotive industry forces you to think fast, communicate well, and continuously evolve. There’s always a new challenge, a new process to improve, or a new opportunity to create impact. I also love that this industry is deeply people-driven. Behind every vehicle, sale, service appointment, or marketing campaign is a real person and a relationship.<br>

What is the top trend you’re watching in the used-car industry this year?
The used-car market has become increasingly volatile, and vehicles are moving quicker and harder than they have in years. Because of that, having a strong exit strategy before acquiring inventory is more important than ever. A vehicle purchased today could have a completely different market value in 30 days, depending on supply, demand, and consumer behavior.

What accomplishment are you most proud of in your career?
For many years, I wanted to be seen, to prove I was capable, valuable, and deserving of a seat at the table alongside ownership and decision-makers. Throughout my career, I’ve worked hard to build trust, expand my skill set, and contribute in meaningful ways beyond just my role or title.

As Vaden begins preparing and developing its third generation of leadership, our owner and president, Jane Vaden Thacher, selected four employees with different strengths, perspectives, and experiences to help build part of that foundation for the future. Being included by Jane in that group is an accomplishment I’m incredibly proud of and deeply humbled by.

To me, it represents more than recognition. It reflects years of consistency, adaptability, loyalty, and earning the trust of leadership. Knowing that my voice, perspective, and contributions are valued at that level is something I do not take lightly, and it motivates me to continue growing both personally and professionally.

What book, film or song has inspired you personally or professionally?
One book that brought me a great deal of clarity, personally and professionally, was “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle. In the automotive industry, we are constantly focused on the future, the next goal, the next month, the next challenge, or the next opportunity. It can become very easy to live in a constant state of pressure and anticipation.

This book reminded me of the importance of being fully present. It taught me that growth, leadership, and fulfillment are not found by obsessing over the past or anxiously chasing the future, but by being intentional in the present moment. Professionally, it helped me become more grounded under pressure and more mindful in how I communicate, lead, and problem-solve. Personally, it gave me a healthier perspective on balancing ambition with gratitude.

Who is someone who has inspired you personally or professionally?
West Beaver has been one of the most influential people in both my personal and professional growth. He invested time into developing me not just as an employee, but as a person and leader. Throughout my career, he has challenged me to think bigger, communicate better, and approach situations with confidence and accountability.

One of our first real interactions included a statement that stuck with me: “If you’re talking, you might as well be selling something.” At first, it sounded simple, but over time I realized it was really about intentional communication and understanding the value of influence. Whether you are selling an idea, a vision, a process, or yourself professionally, every interaction matters.

What I admire most is his ability to balance strategy, leadership, and people development. His mentorship helped shape the way I approach relationships, business, and leadership today, and I’m grateful for the opportunities and trust he has extended to me throughout my career here at Vaden.