AMN Drivetime: Dave Caracci

From Building Race Engines to Building Sales Teams

Industry veteran Caracci is a guy who can wield a wrench – or an interview question – as deftly as he can a sales pitch.

In this latest episode of AMN Drivetime, Babcox CEO Bill Babcox sits down with Dave Caracci, longtime aftermarket veteran who currently serves as executive director of the Automotive Sales Council. While he racked up a stellar career as an aftermarket sales professional, Caracci has many skills he has cultivated over his long and successful career. Dave is a guy who can wield a wrench as deftly as he can a sales pitch.

From a young age, Caracci had his eyes on the end goal. He said he decided in the seventh grade that he was going to become a sports car racer. And so he did.

Caracci began his journey in the industry studying to be a diesel mechanic at a trade school. From there, he began building race engines and became fully immersed in the racing world. Eventually, his career in racing led to a job in sales and the rest is a very colorful and exciting history that you don’t want to miss.

During the podcast, Bill and Dave talk about: 

02:49 The transition from racing to sales

05:42 Getting a “Business Degree” at the School of Life

13:48: The secret sauce to success in the aftermarket

22:31 Why Dave says this is the money business, NOT the auto parts business

24:30 Dave’s devotion to volunteering in the aftermarket

28:48 Tales from the road – both racing and business

40:44 Dave’s other passion – sailing 

43:45 The ever-popular Lightning Round

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.

You May Also Like

AWDA’s Ted Hughes on the Power of Industry Partnerships

Aftermarket veteran shares the changes he’s experienced and lessons learned through 30+ years in the aftermarket.

As a 30-plus-year automotive aftermarket veteran, Ted Hughes has seen change after change in the industry. He’s experienced countless technological improvements. During his almost 24 years as head of marketing for MAHLE, he charged head-first into the digital era — embracing digital media, e-commerce and a “data is king” mindset. Yet despite the evolution of the industry, one aspect has remained true: nothing beats the solid relationships that form long-lasting business partnerships and make this industry strong.

AWDA’s Ted Hughes on the Power of Industry Partnerships

Aftermarket veteran Ted Hughes shares the changes he’s experienced and lessons learned through 30+ years in the aftermarket.

Rick Schwartz: M&A Trends Affecting the Aftermarket

Schwartz Advisors’ Rick Schwartz delves into his career history and the breadth and depth of the firm’s expertise.

The 4 P’s of GSP’s Growth with Michael Ceritano

Ceritano describes the ways GSP North America has grown and what he feels has been integral to its success.

Autologue’s Jim Franco: Opportunities in Today’s Market

Find out why Jim Franco is as energized as ever about the business opportunities he sees in the market today.

Other Posts

Schaeffler and Sustainability with Jerry Conroy

Conroy shares insights into his company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.

At the Intersection of Tradition and Innovation with Grace Hovis

Grace Hovis’s journey in the industry blends tradition and innovation.

Answer Any Business Question With Confidence

Whatever comes along, confidence that you’ll overcome it will help you come out on top.

profitablity
Shop Profile – D’s Auto & Truck Repair, Holland, Michigan

“I’m not sure why anybody ever came to work for me. We were a disorganized mess.”