Throughout 2022 we 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.
MEET THIS WEEK’S LEADER: AMANDA KLOEPFER, DIRECTOR OF WARRANTY, PREMIER TRUCK GROUP
“STAY TRUE TO YOU.”
First Automotive Job: Part of the Fleet Services Team, Premier Truck Group
PAG Tenure: 16 years
What attracted you to the automotive industry? I was obtaining a business administration degree and my only work experience was as a cosmetologist, managing a local salon. With my last year of college left, I applied at Premier Truck Group to work part time in the accounting department. My goal was to get hands-on experience and broaden my horizons.
Most satisfying part of your job: I love looking at a process and seeing how we can make it the most efficient. I think of processes like a puzzle. Each step of a process is a piece of a puzzle, and we can rearrange them until they create the perfect picture.
Proudest professional achievement: Taking our fleet services and warranty teams from paper to paperless. It allowed us true visibility in tracking our progress and the ability to work remotely which allows us to assist dealerships across the country.
Who was the biggest influence in your career? My first manager when I joined the fleet services team. I was young, almost out of college and had lots of ideas. No matter how crazy or off the wall my ideas were, I was always listened to. Throughout the years, I was a part of several large projects and learned that there is always a solution if you just look at the problem from a different angle and include your team around you. I learned, while in a leadership position, how important it is to get to know your team and find out what is important to them, not just professionally but personally.
Looking back on the last decade, how have you seen the automotive industry landscape change and evolve to engage more women? My perspective has been more with the commercial trucking side of the dealerships than automotive, but it is similar. It is a male dominated industry; however, more and more women are joining the leadership teams.
What hobbies do you enjoy? I love being outdoors. It doesn’t matter what I’m doing as long as there is sunshine, and my family is around.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years? I have enjoyed the growth that Penske has offered me, and I am open to any future opportunities.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in the automotive industry? Do not be shy about your interests and goals. You would be amazed by the resources and development opportunities available to you, but people must know your interests. Let those around you know so they can offer support.
What is the best career advice you’ve ever received? Stay true to you. There are going to be challenges along the way but stay true to who you are, and it will make all the difference.
