How Damon Lester Went from Accountant to Dealership Owner

You know, one of the things I love most about this industry is that every leader has a story—and today’s guest, Damon Lester, has one of the most unique I’ve ever heard. Imagine stepping into the world of auto dealerships before you’ve even set foot inside a dealership. Yeah, you heard that right. Damon went from the world of accounting to becoming the owner of Nissan Bowie and long-time chairman of NAMAD, and his journey is nothing short of incredible.

In this episode, Damon and I dig deep into what it takes to lead in an industry that’s been through its fair share of challenges. We talk about how he accidentally found himself in the automotive world, the life-changing lessons he learned from working overseas in post-Soviet countries, and why diversity in leadership isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a key driver of success.

Damon’s insights on navigating the complex world of dealership ownership, especially as a minority dealer, are something you don’t want to miss. We also dive into how the auto industry has shifted from having to embrace diversity to wanting to, and what that means for the future of dealerships.

A Glimpse Into the Episode:

“People are people, no matter where they come from,” Damon shares, reflecting on his time overseas. This insight serves as a foundation for his leadership at NAMAD, where fostering diversity isn’t just a goal—it’s a necessary ingredient for success in the automotive industry. Whether he’s discussing the challenges of dealership ownership or the cultural nuances of buying a car, Damon’s insights are both profound and practical.

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