Shifting gears and our conversations about cars
Women are not only a slim majority of licensed drivers these days, they are also the wide majority of influential decision makers when it comes to purchasing a new vehicle. So it only makes sense that the historically male-dominated auto industry is keenly interested in providing a more woman-friendly purchasing experience. How is that going? The following accounts leave us feeling that change is afoot and the rewards are both personal and good for business.
Amber Hawrelak
Oxford Dodge
Being a woman in auto sales isn’t a usual career path. It wasn’t something Amber Hawrelak, sales associate at Oxford Dodge, thought about until encouraged by a friend. “People are my emphasis and the product just happens to be cars. My past jobs showed me people put their trust in me, relied on me — all of that helped me in this job,” she says. “Trust, reliability and my work ethic are my key to success.”
As well as meeting people and helping them, Amber enjoys the fast pace and unpredictability of her days. “It’s fun and scary at the same time.”
“I’m proving I bring something to the table. Women in car sales bring different ways of selling — problem-solving, educating, connecting.”
• oxforddodge.ca
Stephanie Shearsby
Lexus of London
Stephanie Shearsby, senior sales manager at Lexus of London, never thought she would find herself in the retail automotive world. But after a friend from high school recommended her it turned out to be the perfect career move. “It was a huge leap of faith,” she says. “It was a life change for me.”
She credits her success, both as a product advisor and now as a manager, to two Japanese philosophies: the concept of hospitality, mindfulness and sincerity; and the pursuit of perfection through continuous daily improvement.
“I enjoy being a part of the Lexus of London team,” says Stephanie. “We are all passionate about what we do and the product — especially our bestselling models that are built right here in Ontario.” Stephanie has now had the opportunity to hire more women and encourages them through coaching and mentorship. “The overall diversity of the team has evolved over the years. It’s a lovely balance.”
• lexusoflondon.com
Adrienne Willcock
Maserati and Alfa Romeo of London
Adrienne Willcock’s passion for vehicles started in childhood. She fondly remembers her father picking her
up from school in a Toyota Supra. “I remember the red interior with black exterior and will never forget the smell. My father had a look of pure joy,” says Andrienne, who now has a tattoo of that vehicle.
As general sales manager for Maserati and Alfa Romeo of London, located under the same roof, Adrienne wants to bring that same joy to clients. She says people who walk into the dealership will find a warm, welcoming environment with lots of laughter. “I’m grateful for the relationships I’ve developed with my clients.”
Our vehicles offer timeless elegance with modern technology, Adrienne says. “A vehicle is a vessel that carries you through your memories.”
• alfaromeolondon.ca • londonmaserati.com
