Name: Jarrod Kilway
School:
Class: 2003
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Occupation: Manager at Volvo of Fort Myers
What was your career path leading up to your current job?
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After college at The University of Akron, I started with the Spitzer Organization as I have always had a love of cars. After spending a year learning the business, I made the decision to leave Ohio and head to Fort Myers. In 2006, Fort Myers was one of the largest growing areas in the U.S.
Since I have been here in Fort Myers I have put in long hours and countless sleepless nights working in sales. In 2008 I took a position with Fort Myers Toyota, who at the time was the largest Toyota dealership and was selling over 1,300 cars a month. I managed their Internet Department and worked exclusively with customers via the Internet.
In August of 2010, I made the change to Volvo of Fort Myers, who needed help as they had no Internet presence and were managed poorly. Since I have been here, we have implemented new protocol and have turned this once dying dealership into a profitable one every month.
What does your job entail, and what is your career goal?
I manage the day-to-day operations of the used car department, manage monthly profit and loss statements, and manage the advertising, both digital and traditional (print, TV, radio). I also manage all the digital media in the dealership such as the Web site, social media, and Google AdWords.
In the next 10 years, my goal is to buy my own franchise and be the owner-operator of a dealership here in Fort Myers.
What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment?
Taking the dealership I am presently working at from risk of closure due to monthly losses to being a profitable one month in and month out.
What’s your favorite high school memory?
Friday night football games and going to the Boot Scoot Saloon.
Which restaurant, social gathering place or other place did you enjoy spending time at in the Falls when you were in school?
Swenson’s and . I wish there was a way to get the food down here!
What advice would you give to future graduates?
Work hard day in and day out like your job is on the line, and success will follow you in all aspects life.