Women in Auto: Olivia Schneider

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Olivia Schneider is a sales and leasing consultant at North Park Subaru at Dominion, who has worked her way up through several positions from her beginning a decade ago in the retail automotive business.

She believes that any woman who has the drive and passion to succeed, and isn’t afraid to put in the necessary hard work, can be success in virtually any role in the auto industry.

Here are some of her observations about her path to her career and her experience working in the automotive industry in the San Antonio area:

Q.: What is your role in the automotive industry?

A.: Sales and leasing consultant for North Park Subaru at Dominion.

How long have you been in the auto industry?

A.: Ten years.

Q.: Why did you choose the auto industry?

A.: At that time in my life, the automotive industry chose me. I was fresh out of college and looking for a long-term career path.

Q.: How did you get your first job in the industry?

A.: My former roommate was employed in the service department of a Buick-GMC dealership. She recommended me to her service manager and arranged an interview for me.

To my surprise, I was offered the job on the spot. Little did I know that this opportunity would pave the way for a successful career that I would excel in.

Q.: Is you current job your first in the industry, or have you had other roles?

A.: I worked as a service cashier in the auto industry, and was quickly promoted to a BDC (Business Development Center) agent in just six months.

In 2015, I moved from South Carolina to San Antonio, Texas. I started working as a service assistant and warranty clerk at a Buick-GMC dealership, and later joined the sales team for two years.

In 2018, I became the BDC manager at North Park Subaru at Dominion, which I thoroughly enjoyed. However, I wanted to grow and explore more opportunities. So, for the past two years, I have been working as a sales and leasing consultant, and it has become my passion.

Q.: What is your overall view so far of working in the auto industry? Is it what you imagined it to be?

A.: When I first joined the auto industry, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this journey.

Since then, I’ve experienced many highs and lows, but I’ve learned a great deal from my overall experience.

I feel blessed to have been given this opportunity, and I’m committed to continuing my personal and professional growth.

Q.: What is the most-memorable moment you can recall from your time working in the auto industry?

A.: I was once told that I was too young and that women were not suitable for management roles.

However, this only motivated me to push myself harder and prove that I earned my position.

Q.: Who has had the most influence on you as you developed your career in the automotive industry, and why?

A.: There are far too many names to mention.

I have learned a great deal from sales consultants that I admire, and I watch how they engage with their customers.

One person who has been especially influential to me is Adam Taylor. When I first started working at North Park, he took me under his wing and shared his extensive knowledge with me.

While I am grateful to many people, I owe a special debt of gratitude to Adam.

Q.: What is your typical day like at work?

A.: Busy! I have appointments lined up for the day, paperwork, test drives, and follow-ups with clients, and I love visiting with my clients while they are in for service.

The auto industry is very unpredictable, and your day can go from zero to 100 at a moment’s notice.

Staying proactive and organized is how I manage my day efficiently.

Q.: Have you experienced any particular challenges as a woman working in a generally male-dominated industry?

It can be easy for females to be overlooked or not taken seriously. Having confidence and persevering through challenges is important. Own your craft!

Q.: What advice do you have for other women who might be contemplating careers in the auto industry?

A.: Thick skin and time are a must.

It’s not a field for everyone, but if you dedicate yourself to learning and mastering your craft, you can succeed.

It takes time, however, and you may encounter failure before you achieve success.

Stay focused, work hard, and never give up, even when faced with rejection. Never take no for an answer.

Q.: Would you recommend a position like yours to other women, or what positions might you suggest?

A.: Certainly!

There is a definite need for more women in the auto industry, and I strongly believe that women can excel in this field.

The auto industry presents numerous opportunities, and I am confident that with dedication and time for growth, you can achieve great success.

Q.: Do you have any other comments you wish to add?

A.: Be passionate and love what you do.

Life is short, and tomorrow is not promised.