Heather Pollard, COO of CarSaver  

2021 Honoree

COO
CarSaver

What is the proudest accomplishment of your career thus far?   

Serving as the COO of CarSaver, a company with the mission of changing the way the world buys and sells cars, has been a pivotal accomplishment in my career. Over a short period of time, I’ve had the opportunity to elevate the strategic functions of the organization, focus on the delivery of operational excellence, grow sales and revenue and increase our employee base to take CarSaver to the next level. 

In 2020, a year that was demanding on many levels, Nissan initiated a strategic partnership with CarSaver to enable their dealers to sell 100% vehicles online that started from a proof of concept and led to a full-scale implementation in less than a year. Being a part of the team who led, designed and launched an online purchasing experience that is transforming the automotive space has been a significant accomplishment, and I am honored to be a part of this incredibly talented CarSaver team.  

   

What is your best advice to other women who want to excel in the automotive industry? 

Be confident. Be proactive. Be brave.  

Women lending their voices and ideas leads to diversity of thought, which is crucial to getting to the best outcome possible.   

Raise your hand to participate in or lead new opportunities. 

Step up and step out of your comfort zone. 

Be willing to embrace change. 

Walk your talk — actions speak louder than words. 

  

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

I’ve witnessed countless examples of mentorship and paying it forward throughout my career, and it’s something I’m extremely passionate about. I am where I am today because of a great work ethic instilled by my parents, and the amazing role models along the way who have helped me in various capacities. I’m passionate about being a mentor, investing in others’ development and growth and recognizing others’ achievements. It’s incredibly important to me to give back and make a positive impact on others. 

  

What is one thing the industry could do better/differently to support women?  

I’d like to see more recognition of women and a spotlight on the wide array of roles they play in the auto industry, which will ultimately lead to more women in leadership positions. It’s not a secret that we’re in a male-dominated industry. According to a recent survey, women make up about half of the labor force, but only a quarter of the automotive manufacturing workforce. I would love to see that start to change by showcasing how women are making meaningful contributions to so many disciplines within the automotive space.