Insider View
Constellation Dealer Group's ethos of "software for life" is a fundamental reason why it’s an ideal home for a business like DIS. The assurance that Constellation nurtures and grows their acquisitions, rather than flipping them for a quick profit, is what truly distinguishes them. It’s an unmatched choice for those seeking to secure their company's future while achieving significant growth and customer satisfaction.
How did your journey with Constellation Dealer Group start before you became a GM?
My journey with Constellation Dealer Group began around seven years ago, shortly after the acquisition of Dealer Information Systems (DIS). I initially joined as a financial analyst and gradually transitioned into the Director of Operations role. Five years after I joined, Randy McIntyre, who was the founding owner and president of DIS at the time, retired.
Recognizing my potential to carry forward his legacy and the values he instilled in the company, Randy chose me as his successor, and upon his retirement, I stepped into the GM role. My insight into the business and the people outweighed the potential benefits of bringing in an external candidate, so I was able to continue Randy’s vision for DIS.
What was it like stepping into the GM role?
Starting out, it was definitely a whirlwind. The reality of the responsibility hit me hard on my very first day because now I had a very large team expecting my direction and leadership. However, building my “first team” proved crucial in laying the foundation for broader organizational improvements.
It took about three months to transition from the overwhelming phase to actively driving change and feeling comfortable in my leadership role. By then, I realized the importance of tackling challenges sequentially, focusing on personnel, processes, and technology one step at a time.
How has DIS grown after the acquisition by Constellation Dealer Group?
Since the acquisition by Constellation Dealer Group, DIS went through a notable phase of evolution focused on organic growth and enhancing operational efficiency. A key aspect of this growth strategy has been to dedicate ourselves to maintaining and enriching our relationships with existing customers. Reliability, security, and uptime are non-negotiable for our clients, and we've worked diligently to meet these expectations.
Also central to our growth philosophy has been the focus on specialization and accountability within our team. By keeping responsibilities clear-cut and allowing team members to concentrate on their specific roles, we've created a robust support system for our customers. This strategy of sustained growth, underpinned by a cohesive and focused team effort, has positioned us for continued success.
What changes in DIS’ company culture have you seen since the acquisition?
Since the acquisition, a significant evolution in our company culture has been the enhanced transparency regarding the company's direction. It’s crucial for us that every team member, regardless of their role, feels connected to our larger mission. To achieve this, we’ve made it a priority to ensure that every contribution is valued, and every voice is heard.
For example, when I started as GM, we had about a 40% response rate on our employee surveys. Fast forward two years later, and we’ve got a 95% response rate out of 150 people. This wealth of feedback, even when challenging, provides invaluable insights that guide our strategies for continuous improvement. Our culture is now characterized by a collective commitment to growth, transparency, and appreciation.
What do you think makes Constellation Dealer Group a good home for a business like DIS?
Constellation Dealer Group's ethos of "software for life" is a fundamental reason why it’s an ideal home for a business like DIS. The assurance that Constellation nurtures and grows their acquisitions, rather than flipping them for a quick profit, is what truly distinguishes them. It’s an unmatched choice for those seeking to secure their company's future while achieving significant growth and customer satisfaction.
The benefits of joining the Constellation Dealer Group also extend beyond just operational advantages. You join a family of businesses committed to mutual success, innovation, and long-term sustainability. The emphasis on collaboration, best practices, and market experience equips businesses with the tools to maintain autonomy while benefiting from the group's collective wisdom.
What advice would you give to a software business owner in the dealer industry who is thinking about selling their company?
Ask a lot of questions. There are a lot of firms that are going to have a lot of smoke and mirrors, but get references, really dig in, and ask really tough questions to make sure you really understand who you're selling your business to and who your partner is before you sign on the dotted line.
