District Sales Manager

About the Role

Kia is innovating in the automotive sector by delivering award-winning vehicles and redefining value standards. This dynamic and collaborative environment encourages unique thinking, challenging norms, and fosters a culture of growth and opportunity. Employees receive competitive benefits including premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for themselves and dependents, a 401(k) with 100% match up to 6%, paid time off, company vehicle lease/purchase programs, a company-wide holiday shutdown, volunteer paid hours, and access to premium amenities at the Irvine, California corporate campus.

General Summary

The District Sales Manager (DSM) oversees retail performance and wholesale targets across assigned dealerships. The role includes dealership consulting to boost customer sales experience and overall profitability, ensuring adherence to Kia sales and marketing protocols. The DSM supports dealer advertising and training efforts to elevate sales effectiveness and maintain brand presence, including dealer compliance with capitalization and credit standards. Frequent dealer visits form a core part of this position.

Primary Responsibilities

• Manage retail and wholesale sales goals, including vehicle allocation monthly and annually.
• Lead all district-level sales operations under Kia USA corporate policies and programs, creating and implementing dealership action plans to increase profitability and customer satisfaction.
• Advise dealers on market representation and share improvement strategies.
• Ensure dealerships present Kia well via showroom displays, inventory management, point-of-sale materials, and marketing including training on products and customer experience.
• Consult to implement corrective actions when sales, financial, or customer experience goals are not met.
• Balance wholesale vehicle inventory in line with market trends and dealer performance.
• Monitor dealer adherence to customer experience standards, surveys, and incentive programs.
• Evaluate retail operations such as pre-delivery inspections to maximize customer satisfaction.
• Set and track annual sales, financial, and customer experience plans with dealerships.
• Support dealer fleet sales efforts and resolve customer care concerns promptly.
• Conduct ongoing sales training to keep dealer staff knowledgeable on products and incentives.
• Monitor dealer certification and service quality.
• Advise on dealer advertising budgets and marketing plans.
• Develop and implement retail promotions.
• Review monthly dealership financials to ensure profitability and goal achievement.
• Ensure dealerships comply with facility and branding standards.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of automotive OEM retail and wholesale experience.
• Business consulting experience preferred.
• Parts and service background is advantageous.
• Strong comprehension of financial statements, budgeting, and cost control.
• Ability to develop business cases and engage dealership management effectively.
• Experience leading district meetings and communicating strategically.
• Retail dealership experience is a plus.

Additional Position Requirements

• Regular domestic travel required, potentially international.
• Frequent dealer visits (daily, weekly, monthly) are essential.
• Possible extended hours including weekends and holidays.
• Must have a valid driver’s license with a responsible driving record; company vehicle use required.
• Willingness to relocate if requested.

Key Skills and Competencies

• Strong presentation and negotiation skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication abilities.
• Highly organized and adaptable.
• Proficient with Windows-based computer systems.
• Demonstrated care for people and drive for excellence.
• Ability to challenge boundaries and empower others.
• Team-oriented with emphasis on collaboration.

Compensation

Annual salary ranges from $89,936 to $121,409. The final offer depends on job-related skills, experience, education, and training.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Kia USA is committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of race, religion, gender, age, disability, or any protected status under applicable laws. This policy applies to all employment practices including hiring, training, promotion, and compensation.

Disclaimer

This description outlines the primary duties and qualifications for the role but is not exhaustive. Additional tasks may be assigned as needed.