The name Ron Hodgson Chevrolet Buick GMC is well known. What is not so well known, however, is that this is a generational family business. General manager and family owner Tiffany Hodgson reflects on her journey with the brand as she celebrates International Women’s Month with her fellow female coworkers.
As an individual that was focused on giving back all her life, she is glad that Ron Hodgson’s foundational value lies in community service.
“Ron Hodgson built a strong community connection through his own philanthropy and I feel blessed to carry that on,” says Tiffany.
The dealership has a pay-it-forward program where they donate $50 from every new vehicle sold to one of five charities chosen by the customer.
- Alberta mental health,
- Kickstand
- Jessica Martel Foundation
- St Albert and Morinville Food Bank
- Zebra Child Services
The dealership also has a longstanding partnership with the First Responders Rodeo; the proceeds support the Zebra Centre for child protection and Legacy Place Society.
Recently, Ron Hodgson Chevrolet joined the 1000 Women movement, which works to remove barriers to STEM education for women.
What makes Ron Hodgson Chev such a long-term success in the competitive world of vehicle dealerships?
“Hands down it is the incredible team and our dedication to trying new things, learning from what didn’t work, and our passion for what we do,” she smiles “We dealers all sell the same vehicles and offer the same services, so we personally concentrate on adding more human connection to their experience; being a part of the kindness we so very desire in our society, and being very aware that this can be one of the biggest expenses that an individual may make. It’s important for us to give customers time and compassion as they navigate it all.”
To other women entrepreneurs considering starting or taking over a business, Tiffany has this advice, which she provides from her own journey.
“Ten years ago, I was in business mode, trying to prove I could do it all. That came with an unhealthy balance in my self care, work, and home life. A few years ago, I took a step back after being exhausted and prioritized what really mattered to me. Today I still work hard, but no longer at the cost of the precious time with Jeff and our children, my self care, and the healthy boundaries I have in place to enjoy the joys of life and success in all areas. It’s not easy when it feels like everything is on the line but taking the time now to create a blueprint of your ideal life will save you the heartache of missing those moments you can’t get back.”
Tiffany adds, “Every International Women’s Month we highlight the phenomenal women at Ron Hodgson Chevrolet. I would like to let each one of them know that I appreciate them for all the challenging times they forge through, their missed lunches when things just need to get done, their personal and professional growth as we continue to learn, and mostly the laughter you can hear in each department any day of the week.
“Also, thank you to all the team members that make working at ‘the Hodge’ so much fun while creating the best experiences for the amazing customers that choose to walk through our doors.”
Tiffany is grateful to be nominated twice for a national award for Woman in Automotive Leadership and for Ron Hodgson Chevrolet nomination for the prestigious Canadian Automobile Dealers Association Laureate award.
“That is one of the greatest compliments in our industry and we are beyond grateful to be recognized for our community support and involvement,” she concludes.
Learn more at ronhodgson.com, and on Facebook and Instagram.
