VW of Marion’s Stars in 40 Under 40 Automotive News

At Volkswagen of Marion, we pride ourselves on the vehicles we sell and the remarkable individuals who drive our success. Two standout members of our team, Ryan Dare and Ashlee Church, have been recognized in the 2020 & 2023 prestigious “40 under 40” Automotive News articles for their exceptional contributions to our dealership and the automotive industry.

Ryan Dare: Discipline Drives Success at Volkswagen Dealership

Ryan Dare maintains a rigorously structured day, beginning at 4:50 a.m. with pre-laid workout attire, a quick dog walk, and a 45-minute gym session. Post-workout, he enjoys breakfast and time with his spouse before heading to work at Volkswagen of Marion, part of the Ike Family Dealerships in Illinois, by 8:30 a.m., concluding his work at 6 p.m., followed by another gym visit, dinner, and relaxation before bedtime at 10 p.m. Dare believes this routine primes him for any task.

Transitioning from managing a GNC store to the auto industry eight years ago at the encouragement of a friend and former sales manager, Dare has found significant growth and success at the dealership. He initiated a strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic to purchase vehicles directly from customers, addressing new-car shortages and enhancing the used-car inventory. This approach, which also influenced team member evaluations and compensation, resulted in about a third of customer-sourced vehicle acquisitions from direct purchases between March 2021 and February 2022.

Dare attributes his achievements in auto retail to his consistent discipline, a trait developed from high school football and track, enhancing his problem-solving and operational skills. His adaptability and willingness to pivot have also been crucial to his success.

Ashlee Church: Steering Volkswagen of Marion Through Crisis

After earning her MBA from Southern Illinois University, Ashlee Church ventured away from her family’s auto retail business for new experiences. However, she returned to assist in launching a Volkswagen dealership in Marion, Illinois. This decision coincided with challenging timing, especially with the Volkswagen diesel emissions scandal breaking just six months after the dealership opened in the spring of 2015. Despite the rocky start in a town of 20,000, the experience of navigating through that crisis and, subsequently, the COVID-19 pandemic has honed Church’s leadership skills.

Church observed that the pandemic highlighted the rapid and inevitable changes within the industry, emphasizing the accelerated shift in consumer buying behaviors. As the first team member of Volkswagen of Marion and the one who delivered the dealership’s first sold car, Church spearheaded a shift towards grassroots marketing post-scandal. This included a notable campaign that gave away a Tiguan compact crossover, revitalizing local interest in Volkswagen.

By 2019, the dealership achieved notable sales figures, selling 263 new and 473 used vehicles, vindicating Church’s departure from a rising career in human resources management. Her journey reflects a willingness to challenge norms and adapt to unforeseen circumstances, underscoring the impact of external factors on business operations and the necessity of strategic pivots to sustain the business.

Visit VW of Marion and Meet Our Exceptional Team Today!

At VW of Marion, we pride ourselves on offering an exceptional range of vehicles and an unparalleled customer experience. Our dedicated team, led by industry pioneers like Ryan Dare and Ashlee Church, is here to guide you through every step of your automotive journey, ensuring satisfaction and confidence in your choice. Whether exploring our latest models or seeking expert advice, we invite you to experience the difference at our dealership. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or to schedule a visit. Come see why our commitment to excellence and innovation sets us apart.