What do Disney, John Elway, and a server from Chili’s have in common? They’ve made BMW/MINI of Loveland team “poach-proof."
By ensuring every employee at BMW/MINI of Loveland feels valued, supported, and cared for, the dealership’s management team has intentionally designed a culture of inclusion and support that simply works. Co-owners John Elway, Todd Maul, and Mitch Pierce have committed themselves to disrupting the status quo by creating an unparalleled workplace culture. While they aren't new to the auto industry, their approach is a breath of fresh air.
Much could be said about Maul’s application of employee engagement strategies, gleaned from the Disney Institute, but it is the anecdotes from proud employees that offer true, personal insight. The supportive culture is reflected in stories of careers built with care. BMW of Loveland’s Service Director, Shelton Sanders, sums it up: “Todd has an intentional approach of how to treat people. It’s the Platinum Rule: Treat people how they want to be treated,” he says.
Others agree that they feel heard, appreciated, and supported in their roles. “Kim (Calaway) has been a mentor to me,” said sales professional Kelly Antuna. “She passes on knowledge and celebrates success.” Antuna’s compliments are echoed by colleagues across every department.
“There is an open-door policy here that lets people feel as if they are heard and appreciated,” said Office Manager Christie DeSimone, who has been with the company for 16 years. Others point to the energetic vibe, exemplary brand, and fun dynamic as reasons they aren’t likely to seek employment elsewhere.
So, where does the server from Chili’s come into play? More than 14 years ago, a few employees were having lunch at Chili’s. DeSimone was so impressed by their server that she knew the young woman would make a great addition to their team. This conversation started Kimberlee Calaway’s career with the dealership.
After starting as a Client Advisor, she was promoted to New Car Manager, then General Sales Manager, and eventually Assistant General Manager. Currently, she has served as General Manager for the past three years.
Calaway stands as proof that the organization values talent and hard work, promoting from within. "Even though others outside of the organization may have been more qualified on paper,” said Calaway, “leadership believed in my potential and invested in my development, shaping me into the GM I am today."
Calaway’s trajectory is the rule, not the exception. Many managers started in entry-level roles, and when the 2020 pandemic forced many local companies to resort to layoffs, this leadership team stood by their employees, cementing a culture of mutual loyalty. Marketing Director Ashley Accardi recalls gift cards and financial support continuing throughout the shutdown. “They understood that people were struggling. They stood by us, and it meant so much to so many.”
Another time of insecurity came during a buyout in late 2020. Employees were nervous, but the entire team, from the Lot Porter to the General Manager, was welcomed into the new organization. As Sanders explained, the new owners “held true to their word.” Now enjoying more than 26 years of employment, Sanders calls Maul by his first name, as do many others, but it was meeting John Elway that made him feel truly seen. “This man, who knows a lot of people and is known by a lot of people, said my name when he shook my hand. That was impressive. ”
Parts Manager Jason Wares also claims an exceptional level of pride. Soon to be celebrating 27 years at the dealership, Wares credits Calaway with giving him the tools to succeed. “She has shown real care about my family and me, and that has made all the difference.” The impact is profound; Wares’ son even has the initials BMW, named Braiden Michael Wares.
“Honestly,” Wares continues, “what brought me here was the brand. What keeps me here are the people.”
“There is an open-door policy here that lets people feel as if they are heard and appreciated,” said Christie DeSimone.