Penske Automotive Group is proud to have female leaders at every level of the organization. Every Thursday for the next 3 weeks, we will feature a female leader from the Penske organization who is empowering women in the industry and paving the road for the next generation of female leaders. From their earliest interest in the industry to their proudest moments, you’ll learn how these women got their start, who influenced them the most, and how they are helping change the face of the industry in positive ways.
This week we are pleased to introduce Cindy Goglia!
Meet Cindy Goglia – Service Manager at Audi Eatontown, Penske Automotive Group
“Take advantage of every opportunity to push yourself and learn all aspects of the business so you can choose a path that works for you.”
Industry experience: 18 years
First automotive job: Customer Service Coordinator
PAG tenure: 7 years
Roles and responsibilities: I am responsible for building strong relationships and providing exceptional service to our customers. I also manage other team members, train new employees, monitor service-related issues, and help maintain our relationship with Audi.
What attracted you to the auto industry: In high school I was involved in a co-op work program at Warner Lambert Pharmaceutical company. I worked there for over 5 years and received my college degree while working full time. In my early twenties, I worked for Nabisco and BASF Corporation, and went on to become a Service Advisor at a Volkswagen dealer. This job was very different from any previous position I had held but I knew it would be challenging and wanted to give it a try. The job connected me to other people and opportunities, and I have made lifelong customers/friends over the years. I had to no idea when I started that I would still be part the industry 18 years later.
Most satisfying part of your job: The relationships I have built through the years with employees and customers. I would even say that some have become like family to me.
Proudest professional achievement: Graduating from the NADA program in 2019.
Who has had the biggest influence on your career: My parents provided me their time and love and at a young age encouraged me to be my own person. The first General Manager I worked for, Alessio Prizzi, would be next. He saw something in me and led me down the path to explore the automotive industry. Also, many Service Managers throughout my career have taken me under their wing and helped me build a passion for what I do.
Best career advice: My uncle once told me if opportunity does not knock, build a door. I was very motivated by that at a young age and remained very focused on working hard and building a career.
Advice you would give to a young woman considering a career in the auto industry: It is an ever-changing environment with so much potential. No day is the same. The people you encounter will help develop you, your position, and your future. Take advantage of every opportunity you can to push yourself to learn all aspects of the business so you can choose a path that works for you.
Favorite weekend activity: I love spending time with my husband and daughter.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years: After graduating from NADA, I am inspired to grow and continue to learn all aspects of the business. My goal would be to work at the PAG corporate level as a mentor to assist and guide other women within PAG and the automotive industry.
How have you seen the auto industry landscape change and evolve to engage more women: When I started my career, there were not many women working in dealerships. At the time when I was asked to take a service advisor position, I was the only woman at the counter. As I gained more experience, I started showing other women how to handle customers. Over the next 5 years, we brought on a female warranty administrator, a female advisor, two female salespeople and a parts person. I have seen so much development of female associates in the workplace and I am so proud to be part of what is now an inclusive industry. Work/life balance has also become very important and I am grateful to be part of a company like Penske that gives women the ability to maintain a career and take care of their families.
Check back next Thursday as we add another Penske female leader to the Women in the Driver’s Seat series!
