As we look to tell the stories about people and the products that support auto dealerships, Digital Dealer is shining the spotlight on companies that help dealers do their job more effectively.
We recently interviewed Bob Gower reflects on his four decades journey and offers his insights into the ever-evolving automotive landscape. From his humble beginnings at a dealership in Pittsburgh, PA, to his role as a General Manager and beyond, Gower’s career epitomizes dedication, innovation, and relentless pursuit of excellence. His career has enabled him as the General Manager and Vice President of ADP managing Traver Technologies, Automotive Service Consulting (ASC) and MNI, to provide him a round automotive experience in all facets of the business.
DIGITAL DEALER: What was your first job in the industry and what did you learn from it that you still use today?
Bob Gower: My initiation into the automotive realm started from the ground level, where I absorbed invaluable lessons in customer service, operational intricacies, and the significance of teamwork. My ascent to the position of General Manager/VP in business underscores a profound understanding of every facet of dealership operations.
DIGITAL DEALER: What are your proudest professional accomplishments?
Gower: My proudest achievement lies in his ability to empower dealerships. By applying my knowledge and skills, I aid them in formulating robust strategies, nurturing talent, implementing cutting-edge processes, and leveraging technology to enhance customer experiences and drive sustainable growth.
DIGITAL DEALER: What are you most excited about for your company in 2024?
Gower: As I peer into the future, I anticipate the continued evolution of automotive technology and its profound impact on customer experiences. While advancements in electric vehicles and innovative mobility solutions reshape the industry, I emphasize the need to reimagine customer engagement strategies for convenience, transparency, and serviceability.
DIGITAL DEALER: What trends in the automotive industry do you find to be most impactful?
Gower: I see pivotal shifts in sales and service paradigms, notably exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite leaps in technology and sustainability initiatives, there’s a pressing need for innovations that enhance customer experiences and bridge the gap between consumer expectations and dealership offerings.
DIGITAL DEALER: What do you enjoy most about your role/industry?
Gower: I find fulfillment in catalyzing positive change and innovation across dealerships of all sizes. My extensive experience affords him a unique perspective to identify effective strategies and discern genuine industry players from mere pretenders.
DIGITAL DEALER: What are your core offerings and how are they used by your dealership customers?
Gower: At the heart of my approach lies comprehensive business development strategies, personnel development programs, process optimization techniques, and technology utilization frameworks. These offerings empower dealerships to implement best practices and drive measurable results in sales, service, and customer satisfaction.
DIGITAL DEALER: What recent innovations in your products/services set you apart in the market?
Gower: My team remains at the forefront of innovation, leveraging emerging technologies to deliver unparalleled solutions. From enhanced sales lead initiatives to managed service retention solutions, this transparent approach and AI-driven methodologies yield exponential returns for clients.
DIGITAL DEALER: What values and principles guide your organization?
Gower: Integrity, excellence, innovation, and customer focus serve as the guiding principles for our organization. They ensure these values permeate through day-to-day operations, underpinning a culture of transparency, integrity, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. The Vision is Experience Matters, if it’s the Consumer Experience, the Dealership Experience (consistency), or the Traver Experience (competency) it MATTERS.
DIGITAL DEALER: What developments can we expect to see from your company in the future?
Gower: Looking ahead, as a COO at Traver I remain committed to supporting dealerships in navigating evolving market dynamics. Through strategic partnerships, technological integrations, and unwavering service excellence, they aim to empower dealerships to thrive in an ever-changing automotive landscape.
In essence, John Traver’s Innovations and my approach to application has built a team with insight to offer guidance for automotive professionals navigating the complexities of an industry undergoing unprecedented transformation. As the automotive landscape evolves, their unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation continues to reimage pathways to success for dealerships worldwide.
DIGITAL DEALER: What advice would you give to someone just entering the field?
Gower: To those embarking on a journey in the automotive domain, I advocate for embracing learning and adaptability. The dynamic nature of the industry demands staying ahead of trends, mastering emerging technologies, and fostering meaningful relationships with stakeholders.