Henry Paoli (Army)

2022 Honoree

Henry Paoli (Army)

Business Development Manager
AUL Corp

How has your military experience influenced your career in the automotive industry?

After a 10-year active military career, I quickly transitioned into the automotive sales industry, where I utilized the leadership, integrity and honesty that was ingrained while serving around the world in the U.S. Army to advance my professional career — all the while continuing to serve in the Army Reserves.

I believe my military background has been critical to my success, now that I’ve spent more than 25 years in the automotive industry building and enhancing relationships with agents and dealers across the country. I continue to hone these skills as I travel widely assisting countless agencies and dealers to grow their respective businesses.

 

What are some of the ways you have seen the industry support veterans?

I’ve found the automotive industry to be very proactive about encouraging veterans to explore post military automotive careers. In fact, I’ve represented AUL Corp at veteran hiring events and have been chosen to serve as an event interviewer to help interpret and highlight how the veteran applicants’ military background translates into the skills and traits automotive companies are seeking.

For nearly 10 years, I’ve held the position of business development manager, where my responsibilities include the recruitment, training and management of new F&I agent teams, and I have always been an advocate for hiring veterans wherever possible. Veterans make great employees, managers and executives due to their exceptional work ethic, commitment to getting the job done right, and their honesty and integrity.

On the other side of the hiring process, I’ve worked to educate our dealer and agent partners on how hiring veteran partners and advocates builds more effective teams and enhances their businesses. When possible, I also mentor veteran college students on how to prepare for interviews, choose career paths and how to be successful after college.

 

What is one piece of advice you have for veterans entering the industry?

Take pride in your background and reputation. We are in a relationship industry where honesty and integrity are critical to your success. Treat all customers with the same respect and personal attention you demand. And above all else, Thank You for your service.