ABIGAIL KAMPMANN

Abigail Kampmann, founder and chief executive officer of the Principle Auto Group, gave up her legal career 21 years ago to focus on working in the automotive industry in San Antonio, and she said that since then, she has never regretted that decision.

As for what it was like transitioning from being a lawyer to getting into auto dealership management, Kampmann said, “What I do now is actually a lot more challenging.”

“I decided to close my law practice, and went to auto school through a yearlong NADA (National Automobile Dealers Association) program in 2006.”

“Then I literally started taking on a larger role in our company” she said. “In January 2009, I started in my first general manager job.”

Fast-forward to 2014, when she started Principle Auto Group, which now operates in Texas, Tennessee and Mississippi. It has BMW, MINI, Volvo, Hyundai, Infiniti, Volkswagen, and Toyota franchises.

“It’s amazing how many opportunities there are to grow,” Kampmann said. “I love this industry, as it gives me the opportunity to reach my goals.”

Q.: What is your current role in the auto industry? A.:

I am the CEO of Principle Auto Group. Principle Auto Group operates in Texas, Tennessee and Mississippi with the following dealerships: Principle BMW & MINI of San Antonio, Principle Volvo Cars San Antonio, Principle Hyundai Boerne, Principle Infiniti of Boerne, Principle Volkswagen Grapevine, Principle BMW of Corpus Christi, Principle Toyota of Hernando, and Principle Toyota in Memphis.

Q.: How long have you been working in the industry? A.: 21 years Q.: Why did you choose the auto industry? A.:

After practicing law for 10 years and being a partner at Cox & Smith for the last four years, I was asked by County Judge Nelson Wolff to run for the open probate judge position in Bexar County. After my husband said no to this elected job opportunity, my dad offered me an office and a secretary in his management space near the Quarry in exchange for some work in the auto industry so I left my law firm and started my own law office.

Q.: How did you get your first job in the industry? A.:

In 2002, my dad, who operated auto dealerships in two states, offered me an office and a secretary in return for doing some work in retail automotive. I started doing audits for his dealerships, where I learned about compliance, safety, hiring and HR policies.

Q.: What’s your overall view so far of working in the auto industry? Is it what you imagined it to be? A.:

This industry provides great opportunities and careers for people. Having worked as an attorney for 13 years before this field, I had no idea that the auto industry could provide so many opportunities for individuals to develop both personally and professionally. Our associates can make a good living, allowing each person to provide for their family and others less fortunate in society.

Q.: Who has had the most influence on you as you developed your career in the automotive industry, and why? A.:

My father, Jack Guenther. He founded our car business in 1965. He stressed that education, work ethic and treating people with respect were key factors in getting the best of myself. He taught me that hiring and building a team is a quality every successful leader must have. I have never stopped learning from his wisdom.

Q.: Have you experienced any particular challenges as a woman working in a generally male-dominated industry? A.:

There have been many challenges and barriers I have faced. Persistence and determination have catapulted me to being an excellent leader and mentor.

Q.: What advice to you have for other women who might be contemplating careers in the auto industry? A.:

Hard work pays off in this industry. Excel in sales consultant or assistant sales manager positions, and you will be promoted. Be sure to meet weekly with your boss so you understand the goals of your position, and get help when needed.

Q.: Would you recommend a position like yours to other women, or what positions might you suggest? A.:

If you enjoy working with people, this is a great industry, and you will never be bored.

Start as a sales consultant or an assistant sales manager. If there are no openings there, start as a valet, a detailer, or a receptionist.

If you enjoy mechanical work and love cars, apply for a technician role.

If you enjoy accounting or back-office work, we have openings today.

Excel in any of these roles for a couple of years and you will get a promotion when available.