First Female Dealer Principal Takes Charge of Alabama Store; Canadian Dealership Acquisition Announced

In a groundbreaking achievement for the automotive world, Taylor Bentley Conner has made history by becoming the first female dealer principal at Howard Bentley Buick GMC in Albertville, Alabama. Conner, who has been the dealership’s general manager since 2018, took over as dealer principal following her application to General Motors as she grew in her role. Under her leadership, the dealership achieved the highest sales among GM dealerships in Alabama and ranked third in the Southeast region. It has consistently been recognized as a GM Dealer of the Year since 2015, an award given to the top 1% of GM dealerships.

Conner noted the importance of increasing female leadership in an industry where women make up just over 21% of dealership employees, a figure supported by data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Despite women holding 29% of management roles across various sectors, according to a 2023 S&P Global study, they are significantly underrepresented in automotive management.

The new dealer principal, granddaughter of dealership founder Howard Bentley, has been a part of the family business from a young age. Her father, Wayne Bentley, who stepped down from his role to become an advisor, praised her innovative contributions which have played a significant role in the dealership’s growth over the past decade. Taylor Conner’s marketing expertise, gained from her professional experiences outside the family business, has also ushered in new productivity models, expanding the dealership’s reach nationwide and reinforcing their commitment to exceptional customer service.

In related news, a notable transaction in the Canadian automotive market witnessed UpAuto acquiring Searles Motor Products, an established dealership in Ingersoll, Ontario. Under the new ownership of Michael Carmichael, president and CEO of UpAuto, the dealership will operate under the name Ingersold Chevrolet Buick GMC. Emphasizing a community-focused and family-oriented business model, Carmichael, a fourth-generation participant in the industry, aims to maintain the legacy of the Searles family while introducing enhanced services and community involvement.

These developments in both the U.S. and Canada highlight ongoing changes and opportunities in the automotive dealership landscape, driven by visionary leaders committed to innovation and community engagement.

Words by: Craig Clowes

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