Auto Remarketing is recognizing the 2022 Women in Retail honorees in the current issue of the magazine and at Used Car Week this fall in San Diego. 

With these awards, we specifically recognize top leaders on the retail side of the auto industry, including honorees from dealerships, dealer groups and third-party providers/vendors.

Over the next few weeks, AR will be posting Q&As with each of the honorees on this website.

Next up is Andrea Weidman, who is vice president of auto remarketing partnerships at SiriusXM.

Auto Remarketing: What do you enjoy most about working in retail automotive, and what would you change?

Andrew Weidman: Every day is different in the retail auto industry. I love the variety, challenges and new technologies that each new day can bring. My goal is to deliver the same seamless new car introduction of SiriusXM to used vehicle buyers in this ever-changing environment. This means we are constantly evolving and looking for new ways to reach pre-owned customers and enhancing the overall experience. As far as what I would change, I feel we have entered a new era of buying and selling vehicles which I believe is overdue.

I started my career at Saturn which positioned itself as a “Different Kind of Car Company.” While it had mixed success, I was able to take away many lessons on how to approach the traditional automotive market with a new and unique perspective. Now 25 years later, the pandemic has forced companies to re-evaluate their business models and practices as it relates to marketing in this current automotive environment.

AR: What is the top trend you’re watching in retail automotive this year?

Weidman: While the pandemic has put a halt on many business activities, digital transformation in the retail sector is more critical now than it’s ever been. Consumer demands and habits have changed, as have their spending and purchasing channels for buying and selling vehicles. I do not believe we will ever go back to how it was pre-pandemic which drives my interest of following trends to see what sticks as well as what challenges arise as companies defi ne new ways to do business both online and in a dealership.

AR: What piece of career advice would you give your younger self?

Weidman: To be open-minded and not be afraid to take risks with your career choices — even when you don’t know where it will take you. It is very easy to stay in a role because it is “comfortable.” Challenge yourself to grow and take on risks you never thought you would consider. Often your leaders/mentors can see your potential before you do.

AR: What has been the top key to your success in retail automotive?

Weidman: I believe focusing on building relationships and trust with colleagues/partners has been key to my success. I have tried to do this by upholding my commitments and delivering on what I say I am going to do as well as, maintaining a results-orientated approach and giving 110% to exceed expectations every chance I can.