Partner & General Manager (Equity Opportunity)

DescriptionBuild It. Lead It. Own It.This is not a typical General Manager role.This is a build-and-lead opportunity with a clear path to equity and long-term partnership for the right operator.Don Johnson Auto Group is a fifth-generation, family-owned dealership organization (est. 1915) with multiple franchise locations across Northwest Wisconsin. We’ve been recognized as one of the Best Dealerships to Work For and Wisconsin Family Business of the Year.Our Ladysmith location is at an inflection point—and we’re looking for a proven leader to stabilize, rebuild, and grow the business with full ownership support.Why This Role MattersYou won’t inherit a finished product—you’ll build one.This Role Is For a Leader Who Wants ToTake full ownership of dealership performance Rebuild culture, accountability, and team alignment Drive meaningful growth across sales and fixed operations Develop people and future leaders Create a dealership that the community is proud of For the right candidate, this includes a structured path to equity participation and long-term value creation.What You’ll OwnFull P&L responsibility across variable and fixed operations Execution of clear processes, scorecards, and accountability (EOS-driven) Talent acquisition, development, and retention Culture building aligned with The Don Johnson Way Fundamentals Sales, gross, and fixed absorption performance Guest experience and reputation management Community engagement and local brand presence What Success Looks LikeA healthy, engaged, accountable team Consistent execution of processes and standards Measurable improvement in sales, gross, and profitability Strong fixed operations performance and absorption Positive reputation within the Ladysmith community A dealership that reflects a high-performance, values-driven culture Who You AreYou’re a builder, operator, and leader—not just a manager.You LikelyHave a proven track record leading a dealership or high-performing department Understand how to drive both variable and fixed operations Lead with accountability while developing people Are process-oriented and performance-driven Take ownership of results—good or bad Are motivated by long-term value creation and equity, not just salary Automotive Leadership Experience Is Strongly Preferred.Full operational accountability experience is required.Compensation & Equity OpportunityCompetitive base salary + performance-based incentives Full benefits package (health, dental, vision, 401k, etc.) Defined path to equity participation for high performers Long-term wealth-building opportunity tied to dealership success Why Don Johnson Auto GroupFifth-generation, family-owned organization Values-driven culture: The Don Johnson Way Fundamentals Transparent leadership and open-book mindset Strong operational support across multiple rooftops Commitment to growth, development, and long-term careers We don’t just operate dealerships.We build people, teams, and future partners.About Ladysmith, WIA close-knit, supportive community offering a high quality of life, strong schools, and the opportunity to make a real impact—professionally and personally.Ready to Build Something That Matters?If you’re ready to lead, grow, and create long-term value—with a path to ownership—we’d welcome the conversation.