To continue the momentum started by our Women in Remarketing and Women in Auto Finance franchises, Auto Remarketing has launched Women in Retail, an awards program that specifically recognizes leaders on the retail side of the auto industry.

This inaugural class of honorees is spotlighted in the July 1 issue of Auto Remarketing, which includes Q&As with each recipient of the award.

Next up is Veronika Egginton, who is vice president of digital development at Larry H. Miller Dealerships.

Auto Remarketing: What was your career path to the retail auto industry? Did you always see yourself in this line of work?

Veronika Egginton: I started working at Ford Motor Company’s global creative agency in Frankfurt, Germany, in 2000. After I relocated to the U.S., I started moving companies and positions, but always continued supporting national automotive marketing for the Detroit Big 3. I ended up at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, where a mentor figure strongly encouraged me to gather some experience in the field. Shortly thereafter I took a position with FCA’s West Business Center supporting (approximately) 200 FCA dealerships in eight Western States. That is when I started working closely with Larry H. Miller dealerships, and that’s how I ended up at the front lines of automotive retail.

AR: What is a book you have read that has influenced or helped your career?

VE: It is difficult to choose only one book that I feel has influenced my career. I read all the time to continue learning and develop my knowledge. Different books have influenced me during different stages of my life and career. The most recent one I finished was “Essentialism,” by Greg McKeown. The book explains the concept of maximizing everything in life by “doing less, but better.”

AR: What accomplishment or moment in your career are you most proud of?

VE: There’s not one moment in my career I’m specifically proud of. It’s a combination of moments and decisions I’ve made that I look back on with pride. A few examples would be: moving from Germany to the United States mid-career and building a professional network from scratch in a new country. Listening to the right people and ignoring the wrong ones. Being patient and following my principles, even if it was more difficult than taking a short cut.

AR: What do you enjoy most about working in the auto industry?

VE: The rapid pace. The product; I love cars. The diversity of people.

AR: What advice would you have for someone just starting out in retail automotive?

VE: Never say never. When I was a little girl, I most certainly didn’t see myself working in automotive retail. It happened because I was open-minded and flexible in my career choices. Consequently, I was able to see great opportunities as they appeared, which lead me to where I am today.