JOHN ULMER
Redding
Summary
General Manager with nearly 10 years of progressive leadership experience within dealership operations. Experienced in overseeing sales, finance, service, parts, marketing, and overall business performance. Recognized for improving operational efficiency, strengthening accountability, developing high-performing teams, and implementing processes that support long-term growth. Successfully launched a customer retention program and helped drive improvements in profitability, customer experience, and organizational performance.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
General Manager
SHASTA HARLEY-DAVIDSON
Redding
01.2023 - Current
- Directed the overall operation and performance of the dealership.
- Improved dealership performance through operational restructuring and process development.
- Led the Dealership to Earn Harley-Davidson Gold Bar & Shield Recognition.
- Launched Tires For Life customer retention program, enhancing customer loyalty.
- Implemented KPI-based performance management and accountability systems.
- Supported growth across multiple dealership departments, prioritizing customer experience.
Finance Manager / Sales Manager
REDWOOD HARLEY-DAVIDSON
Eureka
01.2017 - 01.2023
- Managed Finance & Insurance operations, overseeing lender partnerships, regulatory compliance, deal funding, menu presentation, product penetration, PVR growth, and departmental profitability, prioritizing customer experience.
Sales Associate
SEARS HOMETOWN STORE
01.2014 - 01.2017
- Exceeded sales objectives by implementing targeted strategies, driving revenue growth.
- Generated more than $1 million in annual sales volume.
- Developed long-term customer relationships through consultative selling, enhancing loyalty and retention.
- Achieved high customer satisfaction ratings, resulting in increased repeat business.
Sales Specialist
SIMPLY MAC
01.2013 - 01.2014
Skills
- Dealership Operations
- Sales Leadership
- F&I Management
- Fixed Operations
- Budgeting & Forecasting
- Inventory Management
- Customer Retention
- Process Improvement
- Team Development
- Performance Management
- Recruiting & Staffing
- Organizational Development
- Strategic Planning
Professional Philosophy
I believe strong businesses are built through consistency, accountability, and people development. Throughout my career, I have focused on supporting employees, improving operational performance, and creating positive experiences for both customers and team members. My goal is to leave organizations stronger than I found them while helping others grow along the way.
Leadership Strengths
- Dealership Operations
- Sales Leadership
- Fixed Operations
- F&I; Management
- Budgeting & Forecasting
- Team Development
- Inventory Management
- Customer Retention
- Process Improvement
- Vendor Management
- Recruiting & Staffing
- Performance Management
- Organizational Development
- Strategic Planning
Timeline
General Manager
SHASTA HARLEY-DAVIDSON
01.2023 - Current
Finance Manager / Sales Manager
REDWOOD HARLEY-DAVIDSON
01.2017 - 01.2023
Sales Associate
SEARS HOMETOWN STORE
01.2014 - 01.2017
Sales Specialist
SIMPLY MAC
01.2013 - 01.2014