Description
Position Overview
We are seeking a motivated and proactive Vehicle Acquisition Specialist to help expand our used vehicle inventory by sourcing cars directly from our service drive, existing customer database, and through community outreach. This role is ideal for someone with strong communication skills, an eye for opportunity, and a passion for the automotive industry.
The Vehicle Acquisition Specialist will be responsible for identifying potential purchase opportunities, building rapport with customers, evaluating vehicles, and working closely with management to acquire high-quality inventory.
Requirements
Key Responsibilities
- Service Drive Acquisition
- Engage customers in the service department to identify vehicles that may be good acquisition opportunities.
- Approach and communicate with service customers to explain the dealership’s buying program.
- Perform quick vehicle walk-arounds and gather information for valuation.
- Collaborate with service advisors and managers to identify target vehicles.
2. Database & Outbound Calls
- Make daily outbound calls to customers from the CRM/database to inquire about purchasing their current vehicles
- Follow up with previous leads, equity customers, and “orphan” customers without assigned sales representatives.
- Maintain detailed notes and activity logs within the CRM. 3. Street & Community Sourcing
- Proactively source vehicles off the street, through classifieds, social platforms, and local networking.
- Conduct light field outreach to identify private sellers.
- Represent the dealership professionally during all offsite interactions.
4. Vehicle Evaluation & Appraisal Support
- Gather key information needed for appraisals (condition, mileage, service history, cosmetic/structural concerns).
- Coordinate with used car managers for accurate valuations.
- Communicate appraisal numbers and purchase offers to customers.
5. Documentation & Process Management
- Ensure all paperwork, title documentation, and purchase agreements are completed accurately.
- Follow dealership processes for reconditioning estimates, buy-backs, and trade-ins.
Qualifications
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Comfortable making outbound phone calls daily.
- Ability to approach customers confidently and professionally.
- Basic understanding of vehicle values, market trends, and condition assessments (training provided).
- Self-driven, goal-oriented, and able to work with minimal supervision.
- Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
Key Traits for Success
- High energy and positive attitude
- Strong follow-up skills
- Confidence approaching and engaging customers
- Problem-solving mindset
- Ability to build trust quickly
- Detail-oriented with solid organizational habits
Performance Expectations
- Daily outbound call activity goals
- Weekly number of appraisals generated
- Vehicles acquired from service drive
- Vehicles acquired through outbound calls and community sourcing
- CRM accuracy and follow-up completion
Skills Required
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Comfortable making outbound phone calls daily.
- Ability to approach customers confidently and professionally.
- Basic understanding of vehicle values, market trends, and condition assessments (training provided).
- Self-driven, goal-oriented, able to work with minimal supervision.
- Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
- Detail-oriented with solid organizational habits.
- Experience using a CRM and maintaining detailed activity logs.
- High energy, strong follow-up skills, and ability to build trust quickly.
What We Do
Dan Pilson Auto Center Inc, also operating as Dan Pilson Auto Group, is a full-service automotive dealership group based in Mattoon, Illinois. The company provides new and used vehicle sales, parts, and financing, as well as comprehensive vehicle maintenance and repair services. Serving Central Illinois and Western Indiana, they represent multiple brands including Ford, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram.
