Lead Appraiser

Lead Appraiser

Large-Volume Franchise Dealer Group (New & Used Vehicles)

Position Overview

A large-volume franchise dealer group is seeking an experienced Lead Appraiser to oversee the performance, production, and compliance of its appraisal department. This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for driving disciplined appraisals, consistent sourcing activity, and strong communication between the appraisal team, sales desk, and service department. This role supports both used-vehicle acquisition and new-vehicle deal flow by assisting with trade evaluations and deal structuring.

Key Responsibilities

· Own the daily production and results of the appraisal department

· Schedule appraisers, track hours, and ensure proper coverage

· Ensure all trade, sight-unseen, private-party, and service-drive appraisals are completed accurately and in accordance with company policy

· Maintain open, proactive communication with the sales desk to support both used-vehicle and new-vehicle deal flow

· Be fluid and solution-oriented in acquisition and trade negotiations

· Ensure reconditioning expectations and cost-to-market discipline are reflected in every appraisal

Policy & Process Leadership (Non-Negotiable)

· Enforce strict compliance on all sight-unseen appraisals

· Ensure daily execution of private-party, sight-unseen, and service-drive sourcing

· Actively manage performance and immediately address compliance or execution gaps

Performance Expectations & KPIs

· Cost to Market (CTM): manage cost to market

· Service Drive Outreach

· Sourcing Performance: Meet or exceed monthly acquisition targets

· Sight-Unseen Compliance: 100% adherence to policy and documentation standards

· Look-to-Book Ratio

Candidate Profile

· Proven experience in vehicle appraisals and used-vehicle acquisition

· Strong understanding of market pricing, reconditioning costs, and profitability drivers

· Leadership mindset with the ability to hold teams accountable

· Strong communication skills and comfort working directly with sales leadership

· Experience with vAuto is preferred but not required; candidates must be willing and able to learn

· Organized, disciplined, and performance-driven

What This Role Offers

Leadership position within a high-volume franchise dealer group, a process-driven and data-focused environment, and the opportunity to directly influence acquisition, profitability, and deal flow across both new and used vehicle operations. Compensation is competitive and based on experience and results.