Women's Initiatives

Every Thursday for the next few months, we will feature a new female leader from around the globe, highlighting their career achievements, biggest influences, and the advice they would give to other young women considering a career in the automotive industry.

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MEET THIS WEEK’S LEADER: NATASHA URDEA, SERVICE MANAGER, VOLKSWAGON SOUTH COAST

“IF YOU WANT SOMETHING IN LIFE YOU NEED TO WORK FOR IT. DON’T EXPECT SOMEONE TO HAND IT TO YOU.” 

First Automotive Job: Appointment Coordinator

PAG Tenure: 1 year

What attracted you to the automotive industry? I stumbled upon the industry. I was working for a temp agency, and I was assigned as a receptionist at a Volvo dealership.

Most satisfying part of your job: Being able to teach my employees.

Proudest professional achievement: My promotion to Service Manager.

Who was the biggest influence in your career? My mom has been my biggest influence. She was a stay-at-home mom for seventeen years and went back to school to get her masters and is now a CFO. My mom taught me that if I want anything in life I will have to work hard. No one is going to hand me anything for free.

Looking back on the last decade, how have you seen the automotive industry landscape change and evolve to engage more women? I see more women today compared to when I started in the industry. And more women are now accepted.

What hobbies do you enjoy? Skydiving, hiking, and going to the beach.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years? I hope to continue working for PAG.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in the automotive industry? It is a wonderful and exciting industry. No one day is ever the same.

What is the best career advice you’ve ever received? If you want something in life you need to work for it. Don’t expect someone to hand it to you.

Every Thursday for the next few months, we will feature a new female leader from around the globe, highlighting their career achievements, biggest influences, and the advice they would give to other young women considering a career in the automotive industry.

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MEET THIS WEEK’S LEADER: ALESSIA MASETTI, FLEET AND FINANCE AND INSURANCE MANAGER, MERCEDES-BENZ, BOLOGNA, ITALY

“IF YOU WANT IT AND STUDY HARD, YOU CAN ACHIEVE EVERYTHING AND LEARN A NEW PROFESSION. YOU MUST NEVER GIVE UP, ALWAYS BE PASSIONATE, AND NEVER STOP BEING CURIUOS.”

First Automotive Job: Business Support

PAG Tenure: 4 years

What attracted you to the automotive industry? It happened by chance. I was interested in changing my career and trying new challenges. Once I entered the automotive industry, I realized that it involved much more than selling cars.

Most satisfying part of your job: To see satisfied customers and to gain their loyalty. I also have great satisfaction in seeing the collaborations between the sales consultants, watching them grow professionally and achieve objectives together by working as a team.

Proudest professional achievement: I am proud to see where I am today, working in my current role, especially considering that I studied at a scientific high school; I have a degree in biology and some previous experience in commercial and administrative fields.

Who was the biggest influence in your career? Mercedes-Benz Financial Services has supported me in my professional and personal growth. The company and dealer managers I have had over the years have helped me with growing my confidence and providing support.

Looking back on the last decade, how have you seen the automotive industry landscape change and evolve to engage more women? I think several prejudices have collapsed regarding the role of the women in the automotive industry. The precision, attention, and care that women deliver is now appreciated in this industry and respected by customers.

What hobbies do you enjoy? Sports are a big part of my life. I am passionate about CrossFit, which I do during the week and on weekends, along with relaxing and going out with friends for dinner.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years? I hope to still be with Mercedes-Benz and to be able to support in its growth. I also want to contribute to developing an F&I department.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in the automotive industry? Times have changed. With the right dedication, professionalism, and commitment, you can get what you want from a career in the automotive industry.

What is the best career advice you’ve ever received? If you want it and study hard, you can achieve everything and learn a new profession. You must never give up, always be passionate, and never stop being curious.

Every Thursday for the next few months, we will feature a new female leader from around the globe, highlighting their career achievements, biggest influences, and the advice they would give to other young women considering a career in the automotive industry.

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Meet This Week’s Leader: Yvette Rivera, East Region Payroll Controller

“Work hard, learn everything you can about the job/industry you want to pursue a career in. Never say ‘It’s not my job’. Do it, learn It. The more you know, the more valuable you become.”

First Automotive Job: Data Entry Clerk in the Accounting Office

PAG Tenure: 42 years

What attracted you to the automotive industry? I started in a temporary, summer position after graduating high school which turned into a full-time position.

Most satisfying part of your job: At the end of the day, knowing that I have always given my best to complete all my responsibilities. Ensuring all employees are paid in a timely and accurate manner, being able to mentor my team and assisting management with finding new ways to perform our jobs more efficiently and implementing new processes.

Proudest professional achievement: Helping others to excel in their careers.

Who was the biggest influence in your career? The two most important have been my mom, who instilled a great work ethic in myself and my sisters, and Lee Bobowicz, my first manager and one of very few female managers at the time. She took me under her wing, trained me and provided me with opportunities to work in every area of the business.

Looking back on the last decade, how have you seen the automotive industry landscape change and evolve to engage more women? When I started working in the industry, it was a different world. Women mainly held the accounting (clerical) positions while men held other departments and management positions. Today, women hold many key management positions in the corporate offices and dealerships.

How do you spend your free time? I spend most of my free time with my grandchildren and I devote a lot of time to assisting my husband who is the senior pastor of a church.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years? I see myself dedicating more time to develop and mentor my team to prepare the next generation of leaders in our department.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in the automotive industry? My advice would be to ‘Go for it!’  It’s a fast-paced, ever changing and, at times, challenging but extremely rewarding career.

What is the best career advice you’ve ever received? Work hard, learn everything you can about the job/industry you want to pursue a career in. Never say ‘it’s not my job’, do it, learn it.  The more you know, the more valuable you become.

Every Thursday for the next few months, we will feature a new female leader from around the globe, highlighting their career achievements, biggest influences, and the advice they would give to other young women considering a career in the automotive industry.

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Meet This Week’s Leader: Tena Jordan, Corporate Payroll Manager 

“Never Give Up, Just Because You May Have Been Told ‘No’, There Will Be Many More ‘Yes’ Responses That You Will Receive.”

First Automotive Job: Human Resources Assistant

What attracted you to the automotive industry? I wasn’t necessarily looking to enter the automotive industry but wanted to work within the field of Human Resources. I was offered an awesome opportunity with a Fortune 500 company that allowed me to begin my career in Human Resources in June of 1997.

Most satisfying part of your job: The most satisfying part of my job is supporting our customers who are the employees of Penske Automotive Group. I also, enjoy collaborating with PAG team members throughout the company and within the other Penske Divisions on human resources, benefit and payroll related projects.

Proudest professional achievement: One of my proudest professional achievements is completing the 2021 Shift Activate Leadership program. This opportunity allowed me to learn directly from top leaders within the PAG organization. Leaders that have earned the title of “Penske Automotive Group Dealerships Named Best to Work For.” In addition, to being granted the opportunity to make a difference within the payroll departments across Penske Automotive Group by communicating, mentoring new team members, and by sharing valuable knowledge with internal and external team members. With this approach, I’ve been able incorporate team related goals that increase accuracy and process efficiencies. In addition to sharing how to approach and overcome obstacles by producing positive results.

Who was the biggest influence in your career? My grandfather and my uncle Henry both have had the biggest influence on my life and throughout my career. My uncle Henry has always been my biggest mentor continuously coaching me along the way. My grandfather by always encouraging me to work hard no matter what type of job position that I’ve worked in. Both have instilled strong morals and values to always focus on doing the right thing, to do my best, to never lose sight of my goals or who I am and to never forget the lessons that I’ve learned throughout my life. And most importantly of all, to always remain humble and to care for others no matter what position I hold in life.

Looking back on the last decade, how have you seen the automotive industry landscape change and evolve to engage more women? I’ve seen more women being welcomed into management roles where their voice is not only being heard but being listened to. My assertion is that women will continue to embrace the automotive industry if advancement opportunities are made within reach, negative perceptions about the work environment are removed and there is a work/life balance.

What hobbies do you enjoy? I enjoy all motor sports, especially racing (which is my favorite), riding my motorcycle, gardening and bonding with family and friends.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years? I hope to still be working for PAG, continuously and passionately embracing the core values of what makes PAG one of the best companies to work for, not only today, but in the future.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in the automotive industry? First and foremost, identify a goal path and create a date driven agenda to track your progress. Most importantly of all, continue to learn, be willing to adapt to change and be prepared for small setbacks as those will come along the way. Take additional steps to move forward, never losing sight of where you’re going. Understand that we are often our biggest competitor, therefore, keep competing and always strive to be the best at what you do. You are your greatest investment.

What is the best career advice you’ve ever received? Just because you may have been told no, never give up. There will be many more yes responses that you will receive along your journey.

Any other comments you would like to add? I would like to thank Mr. Penske for making Penske Automotive Group the company that it is today, I humbly thank him for all he has done for us at PAG. I would also like to thank the entire leadership team for mentoring me individually and from afar, believing in me and for granting me the opportunity to make a difference.

Every Thursday for the next few months, we will feature a new female leader from around the globe, highlighting their career achievements, biggest influences, and the advice they would give to other young women considering a career in the automotive industry.

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Meet This Week’s Leader: Sarah-Jane Beal, Head of Business, Sytner Group, Mercedes-Benz Division 

“Walk Before You Run.”

First Automotive Job: Product Specialist

PAG Tenure: 23 years

What attracted you to the automotive industry? From an early age, I realized that I had a passion for cars. As a teenager, I was drawn towards prestigious brands and high-performance models. It was a gift from my parents for my 18^th birthday that truly inspired me to pursue my career in the industry. They arranged a driving experience in a Ferrari 512 Testarossa, and it was truly incredible. It was shortly after this experience that I secured my first role as a product specialist.

Most satisfying part of your job: One of the most satisfying parts of my role is developing the team. I am passionate about providing all colleagues with the opportunity to achieve their aspirations through a collaborative process of supporting their personal and professional growth. The breadth and depth of the role is vast and while it presents its challenges, I continue to get an enormous sense of satisfaction from exceeding targets, delivering results, and providing an outstanding customer experience every time.

Proudest professional achievement: I was recently recognized as ‘Head of Business of the Year’ in the 2-3 million categories at our 2022 Annual Management Conference. This was a remarkable achievement, and I am exceptionally proud of my team and the phenomenal results that we delivered in 2021. While still navigating through the uncertainty of the pandemic, we generated more profit than the accumulated period of 2015 to 2020 combined. Our team remained in a leading position for colleague engagement with a score of 9.0 and colleague retention remained very strong with turnover at 11%. It was an incredible year all round!

Who was the biggest influence in your career? The support that I have received from my Stepdad has been instrumental in shaping my attitude and drive to succeed. At every stage of my career, he has encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone, allowing me to push myself and make the most of every opportunity that was presented. As I have progressed into leadership roles, I have been extremely fortunate in the support that I have received from several incredible mentors within the business. Their continuous support has allowed me to flourish professionally, and they have been hugely influential on how I have progressed in my career.

Looking back on the last decade, how have you seen the automotive industry landscape change and evolve to engage more women? Attitudes and behaviors within the industry have changed significantly over the last decade and it truly feels as though we are making progress to create far more inclusive cultures and equal opportunities. As a business, we have a defined and focused strategy on driving inclusion in the workplace and this begins with education and awareness.

What hobbies do you enjoy? I enjoy swimming, walking, and socializing with friends over dinner.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years? Continuing to drive the performance of the business at Mercedes-Benz of Bath with an aspiration to progress into a larger dealership within the Mercedes-Benz Division. I have so much more to contribute and I’m looking forward to continuing my growth and development as Head of Business.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in the automotive industry? The industry presents an exceptionally exciting career opportunity for all individuals who have the passion and drive to succeed in a competitive and fast paced environment. This has historically been biased; however, we must continue to challenge the misconceptions and encourage more women to choose the automotive industry as a career of choice.

What is the best career advice you’ve ever received? Although difficult to accept at the time, at an early stage in my career, I received advice from a well-respected manager who encouraged me to ‘walk before I could run’. While this is a a common saying, this still resonates with me today. It has been tremendously valuable in my career and is now prevalent in many aspects of how I operate as a senior leader in the business.

 

Every Thursday for the next few months, we will feature a new female leader from around the globe, highlighting their career achievements, biggest influences, and the advice they would give to other young women considering a career in the automotive industry.

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Meet This Week’s Leader: Margaret Taylor, Parts Manager and Continuous Improvement Coordinator, Premier Truck of Oshawa

“Have patience, be willing to embrace change and always have a sense of humor.  Even the toughest of chaotic days can be relieved with a little sense of  humor.”

 

First Automotive Job: Service Department Clerk

PAG Tenure: 15 years

What attracted you to the automotive industry? The Heavy Truck Industry found me! I was in college, many years ago and indecisive about what career path I was going to take. I secured a job at my local Freightliner dealership when I noticed they were building a larger facility. I applied for a position and the rest is history.  When I tell this story, I often say that dealership life breeds in your blood and it becomes a part of who you are and what you want to accomplish in life. I consider myself extremely fortunate that my career found me and has allowed me to flourish and grow for many years.

Most satisfying part of your job: The fulfillment I get from seeing people around me succeed and problem solve. I also get great joy from being a part of a terrific team who are like family to me.

Proudest professional achievement: My proudest professional achievement is graduating from the NADA/ATD Academy in 2018. It was an honor to be chosen by Penske Truck Group to attend the academy.

Who was the biggest influence in your career? The people I have chosen to surround myself with. Whether it be senior managers or entry level personnel, I have taken every opportunity to gain experience from them all.

Looking back on the last decade, how have you seen the automotive industry landscape change and evolve to engage more women? Looking back over a decade, I have seen the industry mature and expand to include women at all levels within the industry. I remember the days of being the only female that attended association meetings. It’s great to see how the playing field has become more sophisticated and diverse.

What hobbies do you enjoy? I enjoy kayaking, many different forms of camping and being outdoors exploring nature and relaxing by a toasty warm campfire.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years? In the next five years, I see myself still leading an amazing team of young professionals and mentoring them to achieve career greatness within the PTG organization. I have a profound wish that, when I retire from PTG, I will have inspired other women entering the industry or currently employed within the industry to stand tall, evolve and eliminate any misconceptions about the heavy truck industry being a male only entity.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in the automotive industry? Take advantage of every learning opportunity that the organization and manufacturers have available. The more you learn, the more capabilities you have when relating to your customers and make educated decisions that will empower you to continue in furthering your journey.

What is the best career advice you’ve ever received? To have patience, be willing to embrace change and always have a sense of humor. Even the toughest of the chaotic days can be relieved with a little sense of humor.

Any other comments you would like to add? I have spent a great deal of time with local school boards and school board guidance counselors, discussing the importance of careers at truck and automotive dealerships. I’ve also coordinated group tours of our facility for teachers to understand the career opportunities that are available to their high school students after graduation. Our facility supports a yearly initiative ‘Take Your Student to Work Day’ and I run a day program that invites high school students into our facility to learn about apprenticeships, sales and administration positions that are wonderful career opportunities.

 

Every Thursday for the next few months, we will feature a new female leader from around the globe, highlighting their career achievements, biggest influences, and the advice they would give to other young women considering a career in the automotive industry.

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Meet This Week’s Leader: Sandra Walters, General Manager, CarShop

“If you don’t ask, the answer will always be ‘no.’

First Automotive Job: Receptionist

PAG Tenure: 15 years

What attracted you to the automotive industry? I grew up around the automotive industry. My dad worked in the industry for 36 years. I watched him climb the ladder and have a highly successful career. I thought, ‘why can’t I do that too?’

Most satisfying part of your job: The challenge of turning problems into possibilities. I love coming up with creative solutions to help my team succeed.

Proudest professional achievement: Becoming the first female general manager at CarShop. It is still at times rare to see women in senior management positions in the auto industry. I am incredibly proud to be the one to pave the way for the company’s future female leaders.

Who was the biggest influence in your career? Our President of CarShop, Kirk Schrader. He was the GM of the store when I started as a sales consultant. He gave me my first opportunity in management. Over the years he has always encouraged and supported me like his own daughter.

Looking back on the last decade, how have you seen the automotive industry landscape change and evolve to engage more women? When I first started as a sales consultant 12 years ago, I was one of only two women on the sales floor. I remember there were no women’s uniforms, and the polos went down to my knees. Now everywhere you look in the auto industry females are prevalent. Almost every department has women in it which is amazing to see. I am proud to work for a company that recognizes individuals based on talent not just gender. And yes, now we even have women’s uniforms!

What hobbies do you enjoy? When I am not at work, you will find me spending quality time with my family. I am incredibly blessed with a supportive husband and two daughters, Marlena and Madison.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years? I want to be an inspiration for my daughters. My oldest is three years old and she tries to copy everything I do. I hope years from now they both look up to me as a great role model. I want to constantly keep learning, growing, and trying new things. With PAG, I know the sky is the limit!

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in the automotive industry? There are two key elements to being successful in this industry: Positivity and Perseverance. Approach every situation with a “Great News!” attitude and refuse to take no for an answer.

What is the best career advice you’ve ever received? If you don’t ask, the answer will always be ‘no.’ About a year after I started as a sales consultant the finance manager for our store left. Having a business degree, I was super interested in the position. I went to my dad to talk to him about the opportunity. He told me “If you want the job, go ask for it!” I went right up to the office of the General Manager of the store and did just that. The very next day I was told “Congratulations, you’re our new finance manager.” I have used this advice many times throughout my career journey.

 

 

Every Thursday for the next few months, we will feature a new female leader from around the globe, highlighting their career achievements, biggest influences, and the advice they would give to other young women considering a career in the automotive industry.

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Meet This Week’s Leader: Mariah Baqeezada, Sales Manager and Finance Director, Porsche Stevens Creek

“Don’t give up and don’t let anyone tell you, ‘You can’t do it.’”  

First Automotive Job: Administrative

PAG Tenure: Just under 1 year

What attracted you to the automotive industry? I was with my father while he was looking to purchase a vehicle. I enjoyed helping him negotiate with the salesperson and something clicked. I wanted to learn the art of compromise. I have appreciated fixing things and putting puzzle pieces together without realizing how much I loved it.

Most satisfying part of your job: When the team comes together and achieves the same goal. Their hard work reflects in the customer’s experience, and nothing makes me prouder or more satisfied.

Proudest professional achievement: Leading the sales team and winning awards for several years back-to-back for outstanding performance.

Who has had the biggest influence on your career? Ralph Day, Robert Day, and Mark Day for believing in me and letting me earn the opportunity to grow my sales experience as a young female on the sales team with a highline brand like BMW.

Looking back on the last decade, how have you seen the automotive industry landscape change and evolve to engage more women? When I first started in the automotive industry, women were in more traditional roles at that time – cashiers, file clerks, performing admin duties. In the last few decades, the roles have become more diverse than in years prior. Women have persevered and changed the traditional history bylaws and are now recognized as leaders. Changing paths not only for themselves but for future generations of women to grow in their careers. Today, you see women as dealer principals, general managers, service managers, sales managers, part directors, retail operations managers, service advisors, sales associates, service technicians – in every department you can think of.

What hobbies do you enjoy? Watching movies, running, cycling, hiking, watching football, playing volleyball, playing board games, building things, listening to music, working out, and playing with my kids.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years? Hopefully with plenty more work and as a mentor to the general sales managers.

What advice would you give to a young woman considering a career in the auto industry? Be strong, believe in yourself, and trust your own efforts.

What is the best career advice you’ve ever received? Don’t give up and don’t let anyone tell you, ‘You can’t do it.’ (I can’t tell you how much I’ve heard that).

Any other comments you would like to add? I was born in Afghanistan and migrated to the states with my family when I was a little girl. We had nothing when we first came to this country, and I know how much hard work can pay off. So, keep moving forward, keep looking for change, keep your head up and get it in your mindset to never give up.