Sales Manager

Graff Kia of Chesterton – Burns Harbor, IN

About Us

Graff Automotive Group has been serving communities since 1914 with a philosophy rooted in integrity, transparency, and treating employees and guests like family. At Graff Kia of Chesterton, located on our multi-brand campus in Northwest Indiana, we are committed to delivering the “Graff Difference” – providing outstanding customer experiences before, during, and long after the sale.

We are seeking a Sales/Desk Manager to lead our sales team, drive volume and profitability, and ensure an exceptional guest experience.

Position Summary

The Sales/Desk Manager will oversee daily sales operations, guide and develop the sales staff, and work closely with the General Manager and F&I to ensure effective deal structuring and compliance. This leader will be hands-on at the desk, setting the pace for the showroom, maximizing opportunities, and fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and customer-first service.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & Coaching




• Recruit, train, mentor, and motivate the sales team to achieve monthly and annual sales goals.


• Lead daily sales meetings, role-play sessions, and one-on-one coaching.


• Ensure adherence to Graff Automotive’s 10-step sales process.




• Deal Management




• Desk all deals ensuring profitability, lender compliance, and customer satisfaction.


• Monitor finance product penetration rates and collaborate with F&I to maximize performance.


• Review trade appraisals, inventory availability, and pricing strategies to maintain competitiveness.




• Operational Excellence




• Monitor and enforce CRM usage and follow-up processes.


• Track and review daily DOC reports, aged inventory reports, and lead activity.


• Maintain strict inventory turn guidelines (targeting 30-day used vehicle turns and 60-day new vehicle turns).


• Audit deal jackets, compliance forms, and adherence to manufacturer programs.




• Customer Experience




• Support the sales team in handling escalated guest interactions.


• Ensure a transparent, hassle-free buying process that reflects the “Graff Difference.”


• Track and respond to customer satisfaction metrics to achieve top regional CSI scores.




• Collaboration & Culture




• Work closely with the General Manager, Service and Parts leadership to ensure seamless internal communication.


• Participate in weekly management meetings, contributing ideas for growth and process improvement.


• Lead by example with professionalism, positivity, and community involvement.

Qualifications

• Dealership sales management or desking experience.


• Strong knowledge of automotive finance, desking, and deal structuring.


• Experience with CRM and DMS systems (VinSolutions preferred).


• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.


• Track record of achieving sales volume and gross objectives.


• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

What We Offer

• Competitive base salary plus performance-based bonuses.


• Full benefits package including health, dental, vision, and 401(k).


• Employee discounts on vehicles, parts, and service.


• Opportunities for career advancement within the Graff Automotive Group.


• A positive, family-like culture with a focus on growth and community engagement.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their resume and a brief cover letter to Graff Kia of Chesterton. Join a team with over 111 years of automotive excellence and help us shape the future of dealership experiences in Northwest Indiana.