Whether it’s admiring the can-do spirit of his co-workers or helping others advance in their careers, it’s the interpersonal aspect that has endeared Ryan Hawley to the auto industry.

It was a phone call from a recruiter that got him started, but from there, “it was the people. Car dealers have the entrepreneurial spirit that other industries spend obscene amounts of money trying to create. Our industry has tens of thousands of small- to midsize businesses that are living out their idea of the American dream! Who wouldn’t want to be a part of that?”

In his role as vice president of strategy and development for NextGear Capital, Hawley is responsible for ensuring his team members and clients have the tools to make them successful.

“Since NextGear Capital is a part of the Cox Automotive family, we have a unique advantage in bringing solutions to our clients that go beyond the simple lender/borrower relationship,” he explained. “Staying focused on the challenges our clients and team-members face is vital in guiding my team’s direction.”

When asked what makes him most proud in his career, Hawley said it was “without a doubt” helping other advance in their careers.

“Interacting with our team members and learning about their journey is fun. It becomes rewarding when the opportunity arises to impact someone else in a way that changes their career’s trajectory.”

Hawley cited his father as someone he admired professionally.

“Growing up, I watched him navigate his way through a career at the Air Force Academy and in higher education,” Hawley said.  “Watching him groom future leaders was a treat. He always knew how to make people feel valued and empowered. My dad drilled into my head that putting others first, while staying focused on the objective, was the key to becoming a successful leader.  

“And, as a young man, I truly didn’t understand what servant leadership meant,” he continued. “I thought it was just another textbook cliché. However, as I’ve grown into my career, I’ve witnessed firsthand how selfless leaders create an unbeatable organization. NextGear Capital, and Cox Automotive, have leadership teams that embody this characteristic and that’s exactly why I’m so passionate about our team. We make a positive impact in our organizations, our industry, and our communities every day.”

Ryan Hawley, 36, is vice president of strategy and development at NextGear Capital.

View entire list of 40 Under 40 honorees.