Best Dealerships To Work For in Canada 2019

Location: Vaughan, Ont. 

Dealer principal: Frank Romeo

Dealership group: Pine View Auto Group

Number of employees: 36

2018 new-vehicle sales: 621, up 3.33%

2018 used-vehicle sales: 243, down 5.94% 

Dealer Principal Frank Romeo on steps taken to ensure the dealership reflects the community’s demographics and cultural diversity: There is no question our staff must reflect our market’s demographics. As it has changed, so [have] our hiring practices. Customers are more comfortable dealing with their own culture. I don’t believe we do anything different to attract female staff other than potential employees can see more females working within our dealership, and that’s a reflection of our hiring practices. 

Romeo on unusual methods developed to reward employees and show them they are valued: I’m not sure I would consider it unusual, but we recognize milestone anniversaries for our employees (10 years, 15, 20, 25, etc.) We always invite those employees and their significant others to dinner and make a formal presentation. We also acknowledge employees’ birthdays and highlight one employee in our monthly newsletter. We also do company functions outside the realm of business to engage our staff in morale-building initiatives. 

Romeo on the shortage of skilled workers: I am extremely concerned about shortage of skilled workers. We try to promote from within our existing staff. There are many benefits for all involved, especially building employee loyalty. 

Romeo on manufacturer programs aimed at educating dealers on better hiring/employment/retention practices: Our manufacturer, Hyundai Canada, is moving in this direction. They now have a training academy with employee recognition and rewards program. Training programs are mandatory for dealer and/or staff to qualify for rewards.