General manager: Tim Hlavenka

Dealership group: Lithia Motors

Full-time employees: 61

Hlavenka on learning how to be a better employer from managing through the pandemic: “The team’s appreciation of working for our company is greater than I thought it was. Additionally, while I always knew we were a family, the concern others have shown for their fellow team members throughout this pandemic has truly impressed and humbled me.”

Hlavenka on diversity, equity and inclusion as it relates to hiring and employment: “Our team is reflective of our community. The connections we make with our customers are critical, and we are able to do that most productively with our diverse team.”

Hlavenka on improving employee retention: “Our management philosophy has always been to take great care of our team members. We encourage open and honest feedback along with suggestions on ways we can improve. We provide them the tools they need to succeed. They are on the front lines, and their satisfaction is what drives the success of the dealership. Happy team members equal happy customers. We have had great success in retaining our team members.”

Hlavenka on offering employees a career path: “We speak to a new team member to try to understand what their short- and long-term goals are. We then outline a path we believe will assist them in achieving them. Sometimes the path takes a turn, and we have to adjust, but we review with them quarterly on their progress and coach them on areas of opportunity.”