Penske Automotive Group is proud to have female leaders at every level of the organization. Every Thursday for the next 8 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 Natalie Parkes!
Meet Natalie Parkes – Sales Development Manager, Jaguar Land Rover, Volvo and Select Sytner Group
“Set a goal, believe in yourself and never stop working hard to achieve it. Perseverance is key.”
Industry experience: 22 years
First automotive job: Sales Executive for Peugeot
PAG tenure: 17 years
Current role & responsibilities: In my current role as a Sales Development Manager, I help drive sales performance across the Jaguar, Land Rover, Volvo and Select division. I am also responsible for identifying, improving, and implementing Enquiry Management processes, coaching and developing other employees, analyzing statistics to identify trends and opportunities, and maintaining and improving our digital competitive advantage.
What attracted you to the auto industry: I am a goal-oriented person. I liked the idea that a car is the second largest asset people buy and therefore it has a real meaning and value. The purchase fulfils people’s dreams.
Most satisfying part of your job: I get great satisfaction from exceeding my goals. Being part of a terrific team at work is also something that brings me joy. My co-workers are a second family to me, and I don’t mind getting up in the morning because I genuinely enjoy what I do.
Proudest professional achievement: There is no great secret to my career progression, I have progressed through this organization through sheer hard work. That bears testament to the fact I must be doing something right.
Who has had the biggest influence on your career: I come from a very hard-working family with a strong work ethic therefore, I would have to say my parents have had the biggest influence on my career as they instilled a very strong work ethic in me from a young age.
Best career advice: Enjoy things while they are going well (make hay while the sun shines) and be prepared to change and adapt when things are not so good. Perseverance is key.
Favorite weekend activity: Spending quality time with my young daughter.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years: I enjoy what I do. I hope to still be contributing to this organization and helping maintain its position as a market leader.
How have you seen the auto industry landscape change and evolve to engage more women: Retail advertising has become more female inclusive and today more women than ever buy cars. This has also been reflected across the automotive industry where there are far more women at all levels of organizations compared to ten years ago.
Check back next Thursday as we add another Penske female leader to the Women in the Driver’s Seat series!
