Tamara Darvish, 46
Vice President, DARCARS Automotive Group
Why did you want to work in the auto industry? I wanted to be close to my dad, John Darvish, who owns DARCARS.
First automotive job: When I graduated from Northwood University in 1984, my father put me in new-car sales. I had to sell until I was salesman of the month two months in a row. I wasn't happy because I had a college degree.
Proudest professional achievement: Receiving the Toyota President's Award in 1989 and helping get U.S. arbitration law enacted in 2009.
Current challenge at work: Coaching staff through constant industry change of all kinds.
Dream job: U.S. ambassador to Italy.
What you do to relax: Hang out at the beach.
-- Neil Roland