Today’s Notable Young Professional is Aly Jiwani, who’s work in the car industry saw him named among the Top 40 under 40 Automotive Professionals in North America last year by Automotive News – the first Canadian to be included on the list. We caught up with him to find out what inspired his career path and where he sees himself in five years…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
As the General Manager of BMW, MINI, and Porsche at the Langley Auto Collection, I am in charge of the overall operation of those retail centres. This includes sales, service, parts, finance and insurance. And, most importantly, to ensure that customer satisfaction is achieved by delivering a premium buying experience. None of us would have a job without our customers.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I’ve been working for the OpenRoad Auto Group for 11 years. I joined the group as I recognized OpenRoad was a progressive company with opportunities to broaden my career horizons.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part is being around the cars. Cars are my ultimate passion and I get to be around, talk about, and work with the world’s finest automobiles every day. The most challenging part is to find the right mix of work/life balance for my employees and to motivate them daily without burning them out. Also, hitting monthly and yearly sales targets; it gives me a rush but also stressful at times.
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
I haven’t been on a real vacation in almost three years.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Hopefully being the Chief Operating Officer of the OpenRoad Auto Group.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
In my first year at OpenRoad, I stumbled and did not have success as a Product Advisor at a different location. I just tried to remain positive and work my hardest each day, as I knew there was light at the end of the tunnel. It also made me stronger as I had very good success in my first six years of my career. This ‘roadblock’ helps me motivate my staff when they are in a bit of a rut themselves.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
It doesn’t at all. Success to me is achieving all your goals monetary or non-monetary. If you reach your goals, the rest, including money, comes along with it.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Being named one of the 2014 Top 40 under 40 automotive professionals in North America by Automotive News and, most notably, the first ever Canadian to be awarded.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Set and establish goals for yourself. Work hard and stick with it. But make sure the goals are realistic.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
Gotham Steak House. I love their filet mignon. I also love Osaka teppanyaki; always a good time there.
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
Reading financial statements! I’m just weird that way I guess. I also love to play baseball and golf. Baseball is by far my favourite sport.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
Cancun. It has the best of all worlds, since I love beaches, restaurants, and the nightlife.
If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
Phil Collins’ “In the Air Tonight.” It has such a cool yet inspirational vibe.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
I’d love to say that I’d be a pro ball player but then that’s just a fantasy. I think I would probably be an investment advisor. I love that field as well.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Personally I support the Aga Khan Foundation and corporately the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Both have excellent causes.
What to you is notable?
Working hard and being the absolute best you can be every day. Waking up every morning and making every day count.
iPhone, Blackberry, Android or Other?
I was a BlackBerry guy for over 10 years and just switched to iPhone a few months ago. The jury is still out…