Leadership Development Program – Automotive Retail (Management Trainee)

Future General Manager Track

Don Johnson Auto Group | Northwest Wisconsin

Start at the Ground Level. Build Toward Leadership.

Most entry-level roles teach you a job.

This program builds a career path to General Management.

We’re looking for high-potential college students and recent graduates who want to lead a business someday—and are willing to start on the front lines to earn it.

What You’ll Do

You’ll begin in a customer-facing role and learn the business from the inside out:

• Sales Consultant 
• Service Advisor 
• Collision Repair Estimator 

From there, you’ll gain exposure across all major departments and build toward leadership responsibility.

Career Path & Timeline

This is a multi-year development path, not a short-term program.

Years 1–2: Foundations

• Master customer experience and daily execution 
• Build discipline, accountability, and consistency 

Years 2–4: Cross-Department Development

• Sales & F&I 
• Service & Parts 
• Collision Center 
• Learn how the business drives profit and performance 

Years 3–5+: Leadership Development

• Lead initiatives and mentor others 
• Take on increasing responsibility 
• Prepare for department management roles 

Long-Term Path:
Department Manager ? General Manager ? Potential Partner

A Day in the Life

• Working directly with customers to solve problems and create strong experiences 
• Collaborating with your team to hit daily and monthly goals 
• Learning how inventory, service flow, and operations work together 
• Receiving real-time coaching from experienced leaders 

What We’re Looking For

• Strong work ethic and willingness to start at the ground level 
• Desire to build a long-term career in leadership 
• Competitive, goal-oriented mindset 
• Strong communication and people skills 
• Coachable, humble, and accountable 

Great fits include:

• College students or recent graduates 
• Business, marketing, sales, or operations backgrounds 
• Student-athletes or individuals with leadership experience 

Compensation & Benefits

• $42,000–$70,000+ total compensation (depending on role and performance) 
• Paid position with performance incentives 
• Full-time career path with advancement opportunities 
• Health, dental, and vision insurance 
• 401(k) with company contribution 
• Paid training and development 
• No-cost college degree opportunities for you and your family 
• Employee discounts and a family-oriented culture 

Why Don Johnson Auto Group

• Fifth-generation, family-owned (est. 1915) 
• Named one of the Best Dealerships to Work For 
• Wisconsin Family Business of the Year 
• Culture focused on accountability, engagement, and continuous growth 
• Proven track record of developing leaders from within 

Apply Today

If you’re looking for a long-term career path and are willing to put in the work to grow into leadership, we want to meet you.