Leadership Development Program – Automotive Retail (Management Trainee)

Description

Future General Manager Track

Don Johnson Auto Group | Northwest Wisconsin

Start at the Ground Level. Build Toward Leadership.

Most entry-level roles teach you a job.

This program builds a career path to General Management.

We’re looking for high-potential college students and recent graduates who want to lead a business someday—and are willing to start on the front lines to earn it.

What You’ll Do

You’ll begin in a customer-facing role and learn the business from the inside out:

• Sales Consultant
• Service Advisor
• Collision Repair Estimator

From there, you’ll gain exposure across all major departments and build toward leadership responsibility.

Career Path & Timeline

This is a multi-year development path, not a short-term program.

Years 1–2: Foundations

• Master customer experience and daily execution
• Build discipline, accountability, and consistency

Years 2–4: Cross-Department Development

• Sales & F&I
• Service & Parts
• Collision Center
• Learn how the business drives profit and performance

Years 3–5+: Leadership Development

• Lead initiatives and mentor others
• Take on increasing responsibility
• Prepare for department management roles

Long-Term Path:
Department Manager ? General Manager ? Potential Partner

A Day in the Life

• Working directly with customers to solve problems and create strong experiences
• Collaborating with your team to hit daily and monthly goals
• Learning how inventory, service flow, and operations work together
• Receiving real-time coaching from experienced leaders

What We’re Looking For

• Strong work ethic and willingness to start at the ground level
• Desire to build a long-term career in leadership
• Competitive, goal-oriented mindset
• Strong communication and people skills
• Coachable, humble, and accountable

Great fits include:

• College students or recent graduates
• Business, marketing, sales, or operations backgrounds
• Student-athletes or individuals with leadership experience

Compensation & Benefits

• $42,000–$70,000+ total compensation (depending on role and performance)
• Paid position with performance incentives
• Full-time career path with advancement opportunities
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company contribution
• Paid training and development
• No-cost college degree opportunities for you and your family
• Employee discounts and a family-oriented culture

Why Don Johnson Auto Group

• Fifth-generation, family-owned (est. 1915)
• Named one of the Best Dealerships to Work For
• Wisconsin Family Business of the Year
• Culture focused on accountability, engagement, and continuous growth
• Proven track record of developing leaders from within

Apply Today

If you’re looking for a long-term career path and are willing to put in the work to grow into leadership, we want to meet you.