Job Description
Job Description
Graff Kia of Chesterton – Burns Harbor, IN
About Us
Graff Automotive Group has been serving communities since 1914 with a philosophy rooted in integrity, transparency, and treating employees and guests like family. At Graff Kia of Chesterton, located on our multi-brand campus in Northwest Indiana, we are committed to delivering the “Graff Difference” – providing outstanding customer experiences before, during, and long after the sale.
We are seeking a Sales/Desk Manager to lead our sales team, drive volume and profitability, and ensure an exceptional guest experience.
Position Summary
The Sales/Desk Manager will oversee daily sales operations, guide and develop the sales staff, and work closely with the General Manager and F&I to ensure effective deal structuring and compliance. This leader will be hands-on at the desk, setting the pace for the showroom, maximizing opportunities, and fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and customer-first service.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership & Coaching
- Recruit, train, mentor, and motivate the sales team to achieve monthly and annual sales goals.
- Lead daily sales meetings, role-play sessions, and one-on-one coaching.
- Ensure adherence to Graff Automotive’s 10-step sales process.
- Deal Management
- Desk all deals ensuring profitability, lender compliance, and customer satisfaction.
- Monitor finance product penetration rates and collaborate with F&I to maximize performance.
- Review trade appraisals, inventory availability, and pricing strategies to maintain competitiveness.
- Operational Excellence
- Monitor and enforce CRM usage and follow-up processes.
- Track and review daily DOC reports, aged inventory reports, and lead activity.
- Maintain strict inventory turn guidelines (targeting 30-day used vehicle turns and 60-day new vehicle turns).
- Audit deal jackets, compliance forms, and adherence to manufacturer programs.
- Customer Experience
- Support the sales team in handling escalated guest interactions.
- Ensure a transparent, hassle-free buying process that reflects the “Graff Difference.”
- Track and respond to customer satisfaction metrics to achieve top regional CSI scores.
- Collaboration & Culture
- Work closely with the General Manager, Service and Parts leadership to ensure seamless internal communication.
- Participate in weekly management meetings, contributing ideas for growth and process improvement.
- Lead by example with professionalism, positivity, and community involvement.
Qualifications
- Dealership sales management or desking experience.
- Strong knowledge of automotive finance, desking, and deal structuring.
- Experience with CRM and DMS systems (VinSolutions preferred).
- Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Track record of achieving sales volume and gross objectives.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
What We Offer
- Competitive base salary plus performance-based bonuses.
- Full benefits package including health, dental, vision, and 401(k).
- Employee discounts on vehicles, parts, and service.
- Opportunities for career advancement within the Graff Automotive Group.
- A positive, family-like culture with a focus on growth and community engagement.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their resume and a brief cover letter to Graff Kia of Chesterton. Join a team with over 111 years of automotive excellence and help us shape the future of dealership experiences in Northwest Indiana.