Used Vehicle Acquisition Manager
Location: Multi-Store Dealership Group (4 Rooftops)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Compensation: Base + Performance Bonus + Inventory Performance Incentives
Position Overview
Our growing 4-store dealership group is seeking a Used Vehicle Acquisition Manager to lead and execute our pre-owned inventory sourcing strategy.
This role is responsible for acquiring high-quality, high-demand preowned vehicles through multiple channels including auctions, direct-to-consumer purchases, service lane acquisitions, etc. The ideal candidate is data-driven, aggressive in sourcing, disciplined in appraisal strategy, and focused on inventory turn and gross performance.
This is a critical role that directly impacts dealership profitability, inventory health, and market competitiveness.
Core Responsibilities
Inventory Acquisition Strategy
- Source and purchase quality pre-owned vehicles aligned with each store’s inventory needs
- Develop a balanced acquisition mix (auction, street purchases, service lane, lease retention, trades)
- Monitor market trends, pricing guides, and regional demand to guide purchasing decisions
- Maintain optimal days’ supply and turn rate targets
Auction & Digital Buying
- Purchase vehicles via physical and online auctions (Manheim, ACV, etc.)
- Analyze condition reports, market values, and recon exposure before purchase
- Control buy fees, transportation costs, and risk exposure
- Track post-sale arbitration and performance metrics
Appraisal & Direct-to-Consumer Buying
- Conduct accurate vehicle appraisals
- Implement and manage “We Buy Cars” strategies
- Partner with service advisors and sales managers to identify acquisition opportunities
- Close private-party purchases efficiently and professionally
Inventory Performance Management
- Monitor aging inventory and adjust strategy accordingly
- Collaborate with Sales Managers on pricing and turn strategy
- Analyze gross profit, reconditioning cost, and ROI metrics
- Report weekly acquisition performance to executive leadership
Inter-Store Coordination
- Balance inventory across all four rooftops based on business needs
- Identify cross-store opportunities to improve turn and margin
- Support group-wide used car strategy and forecasting
Core Competencies
- Strong vehicle appraisal expertise
- Deep understanding of wholesale market trends
- Data-driven decision-making
- Financial acumen (inventory turn, recon ROI, gross-to-investment ratio)
- Negotiation and closing skills
- Risk management discipline
- High sense of urgency and accountability
- Technology proficiency (vAuto, Manheim, ACV, CRM tools, DMS systems)
Qualifications
- 3+ years experience in used vehicle buying or used car management
- Proven track record of profitable acquisition performance
- Strong knowledge of auction platforms and digital buying tools
- Ability to manage multi-store inventory strategy
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills
- Valid driver’s license
Performance Metrics (How Success is Measured)
- Monthly acquisition volume targets
- Inventory turn rate
- Gross-to-investment ratio
- Average recon cost per unit
- Aging inventory percentage
- Source mix optimization
- Net inventory ROI
What We Offer
- Competitive base salary
- Performance-based bonuses
- Growth opportunity within a multi-store organization
- Access to modern buying tools and technology
- Leadership visibility and impact
- Full benefits package
Why This Role Matters
Used inventory is the lifeblood of dealership profitability. The right acquisition manager can dramatically increase turn, improve gross, and reduce risk across all four stores. This position is a high-impact role with executive visibility and long-term growth potential.
About Ruge’s Auto Group
Ruge’s Auto Group is a third-generation, family-owned automotive organization proudly serving the Hudson Valley from Rhinebeck and Millbrook, New York. Since 1935, we have built our reputation on integrity, customer relationships, and a commitment to doing business the right way. Today our group represents several of the industry’s leading brands and continues to grow while maintaining the values of a locally rooted, community-focused company.
What sets Ruge’s apart is our culture. We believe great dealerships are built by great people. Our leadership team is focused on empowering managers who take ownership of their departments, develop strong teams, and continuously improve the customer experience. We combine the stability and reputation of a long-established dealership group with a forward-thinking approach to technology, processes, and operational excellence.
For driven leaders who want to make a meaningful impact, Ruge’s Auto Group offers the opportunity to build, lead, and grow within an organization that values accountability, innovation, and long-term career development. Many of our leaders have built their careers here, and we are committed to supporting the next generation of dealership leadership.
