In partnership with the National Association of Minority Automotive Dealers (NAMAD), Cox Automotive recently awarded its Rising Star Award to a Michigan general sales manager who is following in his family’s footsteps.

In addition to demonstrating a strong commitment to the automotive industry, this year, William Montez Perkins II was recently honored based on nomination criteria, including being a NAMAD member under the age of 40.

“Monte was 11 years old when he first attended the GM Minority Dealer Summer Conference with his family,” Marjorie Staten, president of the General Motors minority dealers association, said in a news release. “It was very apparent that Monte, even at this very young age, had a passion for cars and dealerships, and was eager to learn all that he could about the car business … He said his dream was to be the ‘best dealer ever.’ I knew then that he was going to be a force in the automotive industry.”

Perkins started his career in a management role at Merollis Chevrolet, a dealership that was profitable each of the 16 years that the Perkins family owned the store, according to Cox Automotive.

When Perkins transitioned into a management position at his family’s Taylor Chevrolet dealership, the Perkins family decided to sell Merollis Chevrolet, which was acquired in October.

“I am honored to receive this prestigious award,” said Perkins.

“I feel so fortunate to be raised in a family committed to this industry, and for my father to provide this foundation that has changed my life. This is a complex and challenging industry, and I am grateful to have learned from such a successful organization. I’ve dedicated my life to dealerships and look forward to teaching the next generation of young people the benefits of working in automotive," he continued. 

Nicole Ashe, senior vice president, talent, diversity and culture at Cox Automotive, presented Perkins with his award at the NAMAD annual meeting awards dinner in Chicago this month.

“On behalf of Cox Automotive and in partnership with NAMAD, I am honored to recognize Monte for his lifelong dedication and success in car sales,” Ashe said. “Monte’s passion and drive are felt by his staff and customers alike.”

Cox Automotive is donating $5,000 to one of its national diversity partners chosen by Perkins. 

He chose the National Urban League non-profit organization. During the Rising Star awards dinner, Perkins spoke about how important it is to share career opportunities that exist outside of professional sports or entertainment with youth, according to Cox Automotive.

“We are grateful for all that Cox Automotive has contributed to NAMAD, the GMMDA and the minority dealer network over the years,” Staten added. “Cox is a true partner, and we are honored by its generous and unwavering commitment to help our dealers build their businesses, attain profitability, and create a strong legacy in the automotive industry.”