Aaron Valdez
Kansas City
Summary
Results-driven General Manager and Operator with 10+ years of leadership experience across automotive retail, multi-unit operations, and commercial sales. Proven ability to stabilize underperforming operations, build scalable processes, optimize inventory and expenses, and lead cross-functional teams to exceed performance goals. Recognized companywide for operational excellence, account management, and growth execution. Strong negotiator with hands-on experience in acquisitions, expansions, and market-based purchasing.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Buy Center Manager
EchoPark Automotive
Kansas City, MO
03.2025 - Current
- Source and acquire vehicles through auctions and direct-to-consumer channels.
- Evaluate pricing, market conditions, and inventory risk to support profitable purchasing decisions.
- Negotiate directly with individual sellers to secure inventory aligned with EchoPark standards.
- Apply market discipline and valuation judgment developed through years of GM-level responsibility.
Commercial Account Manager
Advance Auto Parts
Kansas City, MO
09.2024 - 03.2025
- Managed commercial sales relationships across 8 locations in the southwest Kansas City metro.
- Drove B2B account growth through relationship management, pricing strategy, and service execution.
- Partnered with store leadership to improve commercial penetration, retention, and account profitability.
General Manager (Stabilization Role)
Silver Lining Motors
Kansas City, MO
10.2023 - 03.2024
- Brought in during a period of significant financial distress to stabilize operations and implement foundational processes.
- Built operating procedures to improve quality control, inventory discipline, and day-to-day execution.
- Established performance targets and expense controls in a high-risk environment.
- Role concluded prior to business closure following ownership’s decision to cease operations.
General Manager (Multi-Location)
America’s Car-Mart
St. Joseph & Harrisonville, MO
06.2015 - 10.2023
- Managed and coached 5 direct reports across all departments; set KPIs and conducted performance reviews.
- Awarded Top 10 Manager of the Year (Companywide) — FYE 2022.
- 4× Excellence in Account Management Award recipient.
- Directed a $1.7M expansion project, including property acquisition, vendor bidding, and execution.
Clinical Research Technician Supervisor
QPS Bio-Kinetic
Springfield, MO
11.2011 - 05.2015
- Hired, trained, and supervised departmental staff.
- Reviewed and updated SOPs to ensure compliance and operational consistency.
- Managed trial-specific dietary planning and food procurement.
- Supported participant recruitment through public events and advertising initiatives.
Education
High School Diploma -
Russellville High School
Russellville, ARSkills
- Operational Leadership & Team Development
- Turnaround & Process Design
- Inventory Procurement & Cost Control
- Sales Strategy & Negotiation
- Expense & P&L Management
- Marketing Strategy & Budgeting
- Performance Management & Coaching
Accomplishments
- Supervised team of 25 staff members.
- Achieved "Lot of the Month" multiple times by scoring first overall in Sales, Collections, and Expense Management
- Awarded "Top 40 Dealers under 40" by Auto Remarketing June 2023
Timeline
Buy Center Manager
EchoPark Automotive
03.2025 - Current
Commercial Account Manager
Advance Auto Parts
09.2024 - 03.2025
General Manager (Stabilization Role)
Silver Lining Motors
10.2023 - 03.2024
General Manager (Multi-Location)
America’s Car-Mart
06.2015 - 10.2023
Clinical Research Technician Supervisor
QPS Bio-Kinetic
11.2011 - 05.2015
High School Diploma -
Russellville High School