Metropolitan Ford New Car Manager

Ford is back at Walser—and we’re looking for a New Car Manager ready to help lead what comes next.

Metropolitan Ford is one of the newest dealerships to join Walser Automotive Group, bringing the Ford brand back into our growing portfolio. With that growth comes an exciting opportunity to build momentum, influence strategy, and help shape the future of new-car operations at Metropolitan Ford.

We’re looking for a New Car Manager who understands the automotive business, knows how to turn strategy into sales-floor execution, and can bring people together around a clear plan to win.

This isn't just about managing today's business. You'll have the opportunity to help establish what great looks like for Ford at Walser.

For more than 70 years, Walser Automotive Group has put people first—our customers, our employees, and our communities. As a family-owned, family-run company, we've grown to 29 dealerships representing 26 brands across Minnesota, Kansas, and Illinois.

We lead with innovation, technology, and a commitment to delivering an exceptional experience every time.

And your work here matters. A portion of every vehicle sold and serviced supports the Walser Foundation, investing in schools, nonprofits, and workforce programs throughout our communities.

At Walser, success starts with people. Join us at Metropolitan Ford and help build the next chapter of one of the newest additions to the Walser family.

On-Target Earnings: $120,000 annually, with incentive opportunities bringing total earning potential up to $140,000.

As New Car Manager, you'll own the execution of Metropolitan Ford's new-vehicle sales strategy—connecting market opportunity, inventory, pricing, and people to drive performance.

You'll:

• Lead the new-car sales strategy based on market opportunity, competitive positioning, inventory, and dealership objectives.
• Create a clear plan to win by establishing focus models and segments and ensuring the sales team understands what to sell, why it matters, and how to execute.
• Turn strategy into daily action through consistent communication, weekly planning, monthly strategy reviews, and active sales-floor leadership.
• Drive volume, market share, and profitability by balancing vehicle velocity with disciplined pricing and front-end gross.
• Stay ahead of the market by adjusting strategy based on competitive activity, performance trends, and changing market conditions.
• Use data to make better decisions, leveraging inventory and market insights from the Analyst to establish sales priorities and support inventory health.
• Drive aged and priority inventory strategies by ensuring the sales organization is aligned around focus models and execution plans.
• Partner with Marketing to align campaigns, messaging, and featured models with dealership sales priorities.
• Collaborate with F&I leadership to support strong deal flow and overall profitability.
• Work closely with the New Car Director to connect Metropolitan Ford's execution with broader Walser new-car strategy.
• Align the entire customer journey, ensuring digital retail, advertising, and showroom execution support the same strategy.
• Lead through communication and accountability, setting clear expectations and performance standards for Sales Managers and the sales team.
• Coach alongside Sales Managers, reinforcing execution, accountability, and development across the department.
• Stay connected to the floor. Great strategy only matters when it translates into results, and you'll be an active leadership presence in making that happen.
• Take on additional responsibilities, initiatives, and projects as the business continues to evolve.

Above all, you'll lead through Walser's Core Values: Do The Right Thing, Lead By Example, Display Positive Energy, and Be Open Minded.

We're looking for an automotive leader who can see both the big picture and the daily execution required to achieve it.

• 3–5 years of automotive experience preferred, including experience as an Inventory Analyst, Sales Manager, GSM, or in a related leadership role
• Proven track record of achieving sales and performance targets
• Strong understanding of automotive sales strategy, pricing, inventory, and dealership operations
• Experience with pricing strategy, inventory operations, and/or OEM relationships strongly preferred
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to communicate strategy clearly and create accountability
• Confidence using data and market insights to make informed business decisions
• Ability to collaborate across Sales, F&I, Marketing, Inventory, and senior leadership
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Analytics, or a related field preferred, but not required
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record

What’s In It For You?

• Medical, Dental, Vision coverage & HSA/FSA (Includes Blue Cross Blue Shield coverage)

• Paid Time Off (PTO) – Take time to relax, spend with family, or enjoy personal time away

• Career Growth & Opportunity for Advancement We promote from within and provide clear career paths, mentorship, and opportunities to develop and grow your career.

• Fertility & Adoption Assistance: Receive up to $10,000 in financial assistance for fertility treatments and adoption expenses.

• Comprehensive Health Benefits: Enjoy medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus access to HSA and FSA plans to help manage healthcare costs. Access to Blue Cross Blue Shield medical coverage and access to additional wellness benefits.

• Life Insurance & 401(k) with Employer Match: Plan for your future with company-paid life insurance and a 401(k) program that includes an employer match.

• Paid Clothing Program: Twice a year, choose from a hand-curated collection of branded Walser apparel—on us.

• Employee Discounts: Enjoy exclusive employee discounts across products and services.

• Employee Resource Groups: Connect, learn, and grow with our inclusive Employee Resource Groups, including Women of Walser, Drive with Pride, Asian Hmong Alliance, and Veterans at Walser.

• Community Involvement Make an impact through volunteer opportunities with the Walser Foundation, supporting local causes and giving back to the communities we serve.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Support for personal and professional challenges
• Referral Program – Earn referral bonuses for referring talented candidates

Apply today and help drive operational excellence at Walser Automotive Group!

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Walser Automotive Group is an EOE/Veterans/Disabled/LGBTQ+ employer.