GM (General Manager) for Automotive Auction

Overview

General Manager

Location: Erie, PA

Job Type: Full-Time

Compensation & Benefits:

• Base Salary: $125K-$140K based on experience
• Bonus Potential: Up to 5% of net profit (~$25K) or a structured performance-based incentive (20% of base salary)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Cell phone and car allowance
• Professional development and networking opportunities
• Employee discounts on new vehicle purchases
• Relocation assistance available

 

About the Role:

Aquent, on behalf of our Auto Auction client, is seeking a General Manager (GM) to lead and expand a well-established auto auction business in Erie, PA. The GM will be responsible for overseeing all operational, financial, and strategic aspects of the auction, driving business growth, optimizing processes, and developing a high-performing team.

 

This role requires a seasoned leader with auto auction experience, strong business acumen, and the ability to bridge corporate strategies with on-the-ground execution. Candidates should be experienced in scaling operations, team leadership, financial management, and customer engagement within the auction or automotive sector.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership & Team Management—Lead, mentor, and motivate cross-functional teams to enhance performance and engagement.

• Foster a strong company culture centered on operational efficiency and employee development.
• Set goals and KPIs for managers and conduct annual performance reviews.
• Partner with corporate leadership on hiring, recruiting, training, and retention strategies.

 

2. Business Strategy & Growth

• Act as a bridge between local operations and corporate leadership, ensuring alignment in performance, culture, and strategy.
• Develop and implement data-driven business strategies based on market trends, competitor analysis, and operational performance.
• Identify expansion opportunities to increase profitability and optimize auction processes.
• Prepare and present financial and operational reports to corporate stakeholders.

 

3. Operations & Financial Management

• Oversee the entire auction operation, including sales, logistics, and service functions.
• Manage budgeting, forecasting, and financial performance, ensuring cost control and profitability.
• Ensure regulatory compliance with industry standards and company policies.

 

4. Customer & Dealer Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with dealers, fleet companies, financial institutions, and key industry partners.
• Act as the escalation point for major customer concerns and resolve conflicts effectively.
• Enhance customer experience by ensuring smooth transactions, high service standards, and dealer engagement initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Auto auction industry experience required
• 5+ years of leadership experience in automotive auctions, logistics, or a similar operational environment.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and P&L management.
• Demonstrated ability to scale a business, optimize operations, and increase efficiency.
• Proven success in building and managing high-performing teams.
• Strong problem-solving, negotiation, and decision-making skills.
• Experience in corporate reporting and stakeholder engagement is a plus.
• Familiarity with auction software and digital platforms is preferred.

 

Preferred Candidate Attributes:

• Charismatic and influential leader able to motivate teams and drive cultural change.
• Strategic thinker with an ability to see the big picture while managing daily operations.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills that can bridge corporate directives with team execution.
• Ability to identify business opportunities and implement strategic initiatives for long-term growth.

 

****This is an on-site role in Erie, PA, requiring a hands-on leader who can balance operational excellence, team leadership, and business growth. If you are ready to take ownership of a growing auto auction operation, apply today!
#app