CARY, N.C. -

Below is a Q&A with Janelle Kennedy, director of remarketing at Ally and a 2017 Women in Remarketing honoree. 

Auto Remarketing: What was your path to the automotive industry?

Janelle Kennedy: I grew up just outside of Detroit, Michigan, the “Motor City,” so working in the automotive industry was almost inevitable. My grandfather was a 30-year Chrysler retiree, my mom worked many years for GM, and the majority of my extended family have had careers in auto-related fields. Some of my favorite memories growing-up include hanging out in the garage with my grandfather or uncles while they worked on their cars.

After graduating college, I was presented with two different opportunities: one with VW Motor Credit and the other with GMAC. I opted for GMAC, starting my career in the automotive industry.

AR: What do you enjoy most about working in the car business?

JK: There are so many segments and facets of the car business; it is an industry that is relatable to so many people.

AR: How is the remarketing/used-car segment of the business most different from when you first started out?

JK: An increased level of operational compliance mind-set.

AR: How would you describe your leadership style?

JK: Approachable and collaborative; I am genuinely interested in what others have to say and will regularly involve my team when making decisions.

Challenging yet supportive; I want to see people grow and succeed professionally. To help develop and improve my team, team members are regularly given stretch assignments and are empowered to execute. I see my role as a resource, coach and motivator.

AR: Approach to problem-solving?

JK: When approaching a business problem, I normally first start with understanding current state, defining the problem and understanding the desired end state.

I gather facts, which may include data, understanding of process, asking questions or seeking input from experts on the subject.

Then based on the data/info/input, make recommendations for a potential solution, gain agreement, and work with the team on implementation and a sustain plan.

AR: What have been some of the top keys to your success in the car business?

JK: It is the people I surround myself with. The Ally Remarketing team I work with today is amazing; intelligent, hard-working, collaborative people who are passionate about what they do.

Throughout my career I have been very fortunate to work for some inspirational leaders and with some extremely knowledgeable, experienced, bright people who have been willing to mentor and share with me their personal insights, lessons learned, industry knowledge and the importance of work-life-balance.

I also have a very supportive husband whose advice and encouragement has kept me grounded and motivated over the years.

AR: When you are able to get away from the office or work, what do you enjoy? What are your hobbies, interests, etc.?

JK: My husband Joe and I have two small children, Katelyn (8) and Cooper (2). We value our family time and enjoy hanging out together. Kate is an active softball player and competitive swimmer, so we are often at the ball field or poolside. Cooper is not a ball player yet, but does love anything to do with cars; maybe he will have a future in the auto industry.

Read about all of this year's Women in Remarketing honorees in the April 1 issue of Auto Remarketing.