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 Kimberly Barats, who is manager of agent, customer & dealer success at Car Capital.

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

Kimberly Barats: I particularly appreciate the changes and trends that are happening at such a rapid pace in our continually evolving industry and being a part of that is thrilling. I enjoy finding solutions to better assist our dealer partners and our Car Capital team. Being a part of a start-up and wearing different hats makes my role constantly interesting. We should have a lot more women in all levels of the retail automotive space.

We work in what has been traditionally thought of as a man’s realm and the value we add should not be underestimated.

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

Barats: Technology is the main trend I’m focused on. The industry has been increasingly transitioning from old school paper-based transactions to eContracting and DocuSign, making originations and servicing easier and faster. Video conferencing has helped how we collaborate no matter where our colleagues are located. With advanced technology facilitating the way we do business, I’m excited about how far we’ve come and can’t wait to see where we will go.

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

Barats: Consistently thank others because even in data-driven fi ntech environment relationships matter. Don’t underestimate your capabilities, but also don’t be afraid to ask for help. I have epilepsy and it has always been important to me to not let my disability limit me and I would encourage the younger me to feel even more confi dent with sharing my challenges, that being open to accepting whatever extra help I need is not a weakness but a strength. Highly value yourself and those around you and your colleagues will respect you.

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

Barats: I found that direct communication while respecting others has been an integral part of how I have conducted myself throughout my career. It’s important to me to constantly learn and grow. It is critical to stay organized, working within a structure and following defined policies and procedures. It’s necessary to be open to making process adjustments along the way when change is needed to accomplish what needs to be done.

I strive to remain consistent with my personal goals and follow through with them. Most importantly, I don’t give up and have tried my best to pursue my ambitions with confidence.