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As one chapter closes and another begins at Wayne Pitman Ford Lincoln, there comes an opportunity to reflect on the changes and what it will mean to the culture at the trusted automotive dealership. In this case, it means the retirement of long-time Used Car Manager, Tony Krasovec, and the introduction of Kevin Gallinger to fill the role. According to Doug Bricknell, Operations Manager at Wayne Pitman Ford Lincoln, it's about acknowledging Tony's legacy while looking to the future with excitement.
"Tony has always handled the role with class, integrity, and positivity," Bricknell said about Krasovec, who just passed his 30th anniversary with the family-owned and operated, local dealership this past summer. "He's always had the mindset of putting the guest first while having some fun along the way. Tony has also been very resilient and supportive through a number of difficult times and changes. His mentorship of our team will continue to have a lasting impact after he retires and we are grateful for everything that he has done for our dealership and our guests."
When asked what he has enjoyed the most about his career, Krasovec replied, "The place. I was able to enjoy my career and the people that surrounded and supported me there. Being given the opportunity to make sure people have been properly taken care of from ownership, fellow staff, and guests over the years. Also, all the friendships I have had the opportunity to create. This really is an extension of my family here."
"My wife and best friend (Marty) and I have a number of passions in life that we truly love doing together. We love spending time with our family, kids, granddaughters, travelling, and we are avid golfers. I'm looking forward to, simply, a lot more of that. To all my past colleagues and customers, many whom have become friends over time, it has been my absolute pleasure to work with you over my 30 years here at Wayne Pitman Ford Lincoln." Krasovec added when asked about retirement plans.
According to Bricknell, Krasovec brought a unique blend of what he calls "art and science" to his role managing the Used car Department at Wayne Pitman Ford Lincoln.
"There's the art of building and developing relationships, there's the art of having a sense of what the market is doing, what it's going to do, what's going to sell, and what's going to attract the right attention. Then there's the science behind the role -- the math, the data, the analysis, how to appraise vehicles effectively to make the best offer possible. It's a blend of both and Tony has exemplified that balance."
With Krasovec's time at Wayne Pitman officially over on January 2nd, Bricknell said any guests and industry partners or suppliers who have dealt with the long-time Used Car Manger over the past three decades are welcome and encouraged to drop in or call in and share their well-wishes.
Visiting Wayne Pitman Ford Lincoln will also be good opportunity to meet and connect with Kevin Gallinger, who is excited about being named the incoming Used Car Manager.
"I'm stepping into this position that was managed incredibly well for a very long time," said Gallinger, who comes to Wayne Pitman Ford Lincoln from another generational family dealership environment. "Tony has built a solid foundation for this department and is going out with a bang as we are having a record year. I am most excited to focus on growth, rolling our momentum into 2026, and taking this fine-tuned department to the next level."
Although he has been working alongside Krasovec to ease the transition into his new role, Gallinger says he will be bringing his own style to his new set of responsibilities at the dealership.
"Value and trust have always been my core principles," he said. "My style is very straightforward, calm, direct, and transparent. This is what our guests expect. My approach will be practical and no nonsense. Provide a great product, provide a great price, take exceptional care of our guests and the rest will fall in place."
"Kevin's no stranger to the car business and the mentality of a family business. He's grown up in it and understands it very well. He's a great blend of old school and new school. He still enjoys building relationships and developing partnerships, but he also not afraid to try new things, especially as it relates to our online presence. He is aligned with our priorities and values. We are really excited for Kevin and the team to continue the positive momentum we have and keep serving and growing with Guelph and the surrounding area."
Come by and wish both Tony and Kevin good luck in their future endeavors and see what's on the lot at award-winning Wayne Pitman Ford Lincoln, in the Guelph Auto Mall! Family owned and operated in Guelph since 1976.
Call 519-824-6400 or visit them online.
