Used Vehicle Acquisition Manager

Ruges Automotive•Rhinbeck, NY

2d•$70,000 - $120,000

About The Position

Ruge’s Auto Group is seeking an experienced Used Vehicle Acquisition Manager to lead the sourcing and purchasing of pre-owned vehicles across four dealership locations. This role is essential for maintaining high-quality inventory that meets market demand and supports dealership profitability. The ideal candidate will be data-driven, disciplined in appraisal and acquisition strategies, and focused on optimizing inventory turn and gross profit. Ruge’s Auto Group is a third-generation, family-owned automotive organization serving the Hudson Valley from Rhinebeck and Millbrook, New York. Established in 1935, we are known for our integrity, strong customer relationships, and commitment to operating with high standards. We represent several leading automotive brands and combine a long-standing reputation with forward-thinking technology and operational excellence. Our culture supports managers who take ownership, develop strong teams, and improve the customer experience continuously. This role offers leadership visibility, significant impact, and potential for long-term career growth within our multi-store organization.

Requirements

Minimum of 3 years of experience in used vehicle buying or used car management.
Proven record of profitable acquisition performance.
Strong knowledge of auction platforms and digital buying tools such as Manheim and ACV.
Ability to manage inventory strategies across multiple dealership locations.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and closing skills.
Valid driver’s license.
Proficiency with relevant technology including vAuto, CRM tools, and DMS systems.
Strong vehicle appraisal expertise and understanding of wholesale market trends.
Data-driven decision-making and financial acumen related to inventory turn, reconditioning ROI, and gross-to-investment ratio.
Ability to manage risk effectively with a high sense of urgency and accountability.

Responsibilities

Inventory Acquisition Strategy Source and purchase quality used vehicles aligned with each store’s inventory needs.
Develop a balanced acquisition mix including auctions, street purchases, service lane acquisitions, lease retention, and trades.
Monitor market trends, pricing guides, and regional demand to inform purchasing decisions.
Maintain optimal days’ supply and inventory turn rate targets.
Auction and Digital Buying Buy vehicles at physical and online auctions such as Manheim and ACV.
Analyze condition reports, market values, and reconditioning costs prior to purchase.
Manage purchase-related fees, transportation costs, and risk exposure.
Track post-sale arbitration and performance metrics.
Appraisal and Direct-to-Consumer Buying Conduct accurate vehicle appraisals.
Implement and manage "We Buy Cars" initiatives.
Collaborate with service advisors and sales managers to identify acquisition opportunities.
Efficiently and professionally close private-party purchases.
Inventory Performance Management Monitor aging inventory and adjust acquisition strategy accordingly.
Work with Sales Managers on pricing and inventory turn strategies.
Analyze gross profit, reconditioning costs, and return on investment.
Report weekly acquisition performance to executive leadership.
Inter-Store Coordination Balance inventory across all four locations based on business needs.
Identify opportunities for cross-store inventory optimization to improve turn and margin.
Support group-wide used vehicle strategy and forecasting efforts.

Benefits

Tremendous product & inventory
Ongoing company-wide training
Strong company reputation
Growth opportunities
Professional, enthusiastic & supportive working environment
When you join our organization, you'll enjoy comprehensive training, competitive compensation, and unparalleled benefits.
Simply put, you'll experience the best that a career in the automotive industry has to offer.

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