Auto Remarketing is recognizing the 2022 Women in Retail honorees in the current issue of the magazine and at Used Car Week this fall in San Diego. 

With these awards, we specifically recognize top leaders on the retail side of the auto industry, including honorees from dealerships, dealer groups and third-party providers/vendors

Over the next few weeks, AR will be posting Q&As with each of the honorees on this website.

Next up is Brandie Linfante, chief marketing officer at Spectrum Automotive Holdings.

Auto Remarketing: What do you enjoy most about working in retail automotive, and what would you change?

Brandie Linfante: The automotive retail business is changing, developing, and reinventing itself with unprecedented speed as a result of newly established customer expectations, and the desire to better serve well-informed consumers. Innovation, technology, and digitalization are on a fast track. I really enjoy that this is a dynamic industry with a consistent fl ow of new and challenging opportunities.

What I think I appreciate most is that there is such a strong commitment to excellence in automotive. Another top priority is the customer satisfaction. We are always on the road moving towards something better, and a more successful approach. As to what I would change, it would be to further the development and advancement of women in automotive where traditionally we have been an underutilized population. Encouraging women early in their careers to pursue their goals and ambitions within the industry, as well as a fundamental understanding of what a good working environment means to women are essential in helping this initiative gain ground.

AR: What is the top trend you’re watching in retail automotive this year?

Linfante: While we have all been living through decades of the automotive evolution, we are now in the process of the 2030 automotive revolution. The top trend I am focused on is the advancement of electric vehicles and how that will transcend the landscape. How will it aff ect our infrastructure and what will the environmental impact be? Who will emerge as new players, what new products will surface, and how will consumers and the markets react?

AR: What piece of career advice would you give your younger self?

Linfante: Trust your instincts. You know what you are capable of, so don’t be afraid of showing it. Watch, listen, and learn from others. Never be hesitant to reach outside of your comfort zone.

You can plan ahead to give yourself direction and clarity, but always anticipate that the plan can (and most likely will) change.

AR: What has been the top key to your success in retail automotive?

Linfante: Keeping customers’ needs first. Customer service and satisfaction is a top priority for our organization. Always strive for awesomeness. Be a differentiator. As chief marketing officer for Spectrum Automotive Holdings, I get to work with the brightest and the best colleagues in the industry. Innovation is a priority.

I have the benefit of being a part of a team who is highly motivated and driven to succeed. By embracing innovation and strategy we have eff ectuated change, developed relationships between consumers and our brands, and are consistently building brand awareness and loyalty.