Manager, Franchised Operations

Position Summary
The Manager, Franchise Operations serves as a key liaison between AutoNation and its Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) partners, supporting the management, administration, and governance of AutoNation’s franchised dealership network. This role owns the administration of franchised dealership agreements and partners closely with Legal, M&A, CRES, Operations, Treasury, and other stakeholders to ensure franchise requirements are accurately documented, maintained, and executed.
The Manager, Franchise Operations is responsible for coordinating OEM and dealership documentation, supporting dealer application processes, tracking franchise-related requirements, and ensuring timely completion of critical activities associated with dealership acquisitions, divestitures, General Manager changes, and other franchise-related transactions. This role requires exceptional organization, attention to detail, follow-through, and the ability to effectively manage multiple priorities across a complex, matrixed organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a primary liaison between AutoNation and OEM partners on franchise-related matters, ensuring effective communication, timely follow-up, and alignment with OEM requirements.

• Manage and maintain franchised dealership agreements, including tracking key terms, requirements, amendments, renewals, and related documentation.

• Partner closely with Legal and M&A on acquisitions, divestitures, General Manager changes, dealership transactions, and other activities impacting franchise agreements.

• Coordinate and provide all required documentation and information for OEM Dealer Applications, ensuring submissions are complete, accurate, and timely.

• Maintain organized and accurate franchise records, agreements, approvals, correspondence, and supporting documentation.

• Track franchise-related milestones, deadlines, approvals, and outstanding requirements to ensure timely completion and resolution.

• Coordinate with internal stakeholders to gather required information and documentation and ensure alignment prior to OEM submissions.

• Monitor OEM franchise requirements and communicate changes, risks, and action items to appropriate AutoNation leadership.

• Support the development and implementation of standardized franchise processes, procedures, and documentation to improve consistency and efficiency.

• Identify potential gaps, risks, or issues related to franchise agreements and proactively escalate and coordinate resolution.

• Prepare reports, status updates, and presentations related to franchise activity, agreements, applications, and transaction-related initiatives.

• Maintain a high level of confidentiality when handling sensitive dealership, transaction, legal, and OEM information.

• Maintain and ensure the accuracy of dealership contact lists, including key dealership leadership, OEM contacts, and other relevant stakeholders.

• Support Brand Presidents with OEM reporting, performance summaries, and presentation deck preparation to support business reviews and strategic discussions.

• Coordinate preparation for OEM meetings by gathering relevant data, compiling materials, tracking action items, and aligning with Brand Presidents and internal stakeholders.

• Partner with Brand Presidents to ensure OEM reporting and meeting materials are accurate, timely, and aligned with manufacturer priorities and performance expectations.

• Track OEM meeting follow-ups, commitments, and action items to support timely execution and accountability.

• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business or related field preferred.

• 5+ years of experience in automotive operations, franchise management, OEM relations, M&A, legal administration, or a related field.

• Experience working with franchised automotive dealerships and OEM requirements strongly preferred.

• Strong understanding of dealership franchise agreements, OEM dealer applications, and related documentation preferred.

• Exceptional organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to build strong relationships and effectively collaborate with OEM partners, Legal, M&A, Operations, and senior leadership.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and follow-through skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel and PowerPoint.

• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, highly collaborative, and complex environment.

• Demonstrated ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion.

• Ability to identify opportunities to improve workflow efficiency, streamline processes, and enhance productivity.

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Exciting Benefits and Perks Await You:

• Competitive compensation and 401k matching
• Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with insurance plans (health, dental, vision) and maternity benefits.
• Associate purchase and discount programs for new and pre-owned vehicles, services, parts, collision, accessories, and AutoGear
• Access amazing deals and discounts through YouDecide, a website with offers from top providers and retailers
• Join our DRVPNK mission to raise and donate millions of dollars to cancer research and treatment, partnering with cancer charities nationwide

AutoNation is one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States, offering innovative products, exceptional services, and comprehensive solutions, empowering our customers to make the best decisions for their needs. With a network of dealerships nationwide strengthened by a recognized brand, we offer a wide variety of new and used vehicles, customer financing, parts, and provide expert maintenance and repair services. Through DRV PNK, we have raised over $40 million for cancer-related causes, demonstrating our commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of our Associates, Customers, and the communities we serve.

AutoNation is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment in our workplace and the services we provide. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds who are passionate about making a positive impact. Even if you do not meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and help us foster a culture of belonging while contributing to our revolutionary work in the automotive industry. We value innovation, teamwork, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.