“.Com, Click, Drive” served as this year’s theme for our virtual Auto Summit. With the global pandemic causing both OEMs and dealers to shift their thinking, we were able to gather experts from across the country to share best practices, data, and strategies with our attendees.
The morning started with a keynote presentation from Allyson Witherspoon (CMO, Nissan) about the convergence of marketing and connecting with consumers. Our fireside discussion on diversity and inclusion with leaders from National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers (NAMAD) gave important data and insight on initiatives that could help the evolve the industry.
The next fireside discussion that add to the day’s conversation was with Doug Eroh (EVP, Longo Toyota) about shifting dealers’ perspective amidst the pandemic. Our attendees got to also hear a candid conversation from local and national agency leaders on the flexibility that has emerged in the current climate and shift in the customer journey.
The morning was rounded out with a keynote presentation from Lisa Materazzo (VP Marketing, Lexus) who shared her insights on how Lexus and the industry as a whole has adapted since the pandemic. The entire morning gave our attendees a greater understanding of where the business is going into 2021 and the necessary shifts that must occur to thrive.
We would like to thank our event committee for creating a thought-provoking event as well as our speakers for sharing their expertise!
Speakers
- Kyle Acquistapace, Executive Director, Communication, Team One
- Andy Barnet , VP, Western Advertising Sales, Warnermedia
- Doug Eroh, EVP, Penske Motor Group,President And General Manager, Longo Toyota
- Greg Johns,EVP, Chief Digital Officer, Canvas Worldwide
- Damon Lester, President, Namad
- Lisa Materazzo, VP, Lexus Marketing, Toyota Motor North America
- Tim Murphy, COO, Innocean Usa
- Erica Sietsma, COO, Digital Air Strike
- Fernando H. Varela, President, Varela Auto Group And All Star Dealerships
- Melissa Weiland, Managing Partner, US Media Director, GTB
- Allyson Witherspoon, VP, Marketing Communications And Media, Nissan North America
Event Takeaways
