How long have you been in business?

I started in the car business in Houston in 1971 at A.J. Foyt Chevrolet as Fleet and Leasing Secretary and then at Southwest Lincoln-Mercury and Lexus as New Car Sales manager.

What exactly do you do?

I am a Leasing Consultant, assisting clients with the leasing of any type of vehicle or equipment, new or pre-owned, as well as selling of pre-owned vehicles.

How long have you been in Austin?

I have been here a little more than a year.

Does your business offer any unique products or services?

Because we are NOT a dealership, we are not limited to one type of vehicle. We can offer our expertise on all vehicles. We have knowledge of what is going on in all the markets.

What do others NOT know about your business that you would like to share?

We are a leasing company, but we also sell pre-owned vehicles.

Have you or your biz received any awards, special accomplishments or been involved in any special activities or events?

Well, I was one of the first female sales managers in the auto industry. I have been involved with the Northwest Chamber, Women's Chamber of Commerce here, and I was active in two different Chambers in Houston before coming to Austin.

And right now?

Building my clientele and moving into my 1st home in Austin.

Ah, so you are busy with emptying boxes, etc?

No, that’s done, but I haven’t done any decorating yet.

If you could give advice to those just starting out in their careers, what would you say?

Work hard. Always be honest and don’t promise something you can’t produce.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

Something that Milton Palmer, the first GM that hired me said. How do I put it in words? "Never try to hide a problem - always face it. If you make a mistake, admit it."

If you didn’t have this job, what would you like to be doing instead?

Oh traveling! Or, catering. I like cooking gourmet food & party planning.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Leasing is not something everyone is familiar with. Stop and ask questions. No money down, high mileage...it's OK. Leasing is an alternative way to finance a vehicle.

Want to talk shop?  Contact Janis at:

It is the Chamber's commitment that you get value from your membership. In past newsletters, we've discussed some of the not-so-obvious ways you can achieve value, ways you can create exposure for your business. We highlighted sponsorship of Network Nites and door prizes at Networking Luncheons. Last month, we described the positive attention you can get from referring business to another member. This month, we're sticking with the theme of "giving" - specifically, the value you get from being a Chamber leader.

 It's probably no surprise to you that our Chamber is a volunteer-run organization. We don't have a staff. That means the Chamber works when its members step up to lead. I want to call your attention to some leadership opportunities. Check out the "Get Involved" page on our Web site (NWAustinChamber.org). The left side of the page describes our standing Committees. The right side lists various leadership opportunities. Some take a little time; others just take commitment. All will give you great exposure and make a huge difference for the Chamber.

The Chamber Board currently is working on a new community outreach program that we believe will create lots of exposure for the Chamber and its members. This program is going to be exciting and lots of fun. And it's also going to provide plenty of chances for everyone to get involved. Look for more on this effort next month.

Welcome to Our Newest Board Member

I want to introduce our newest Board member Chuck Lipscomb. Chuck is a financial specialist with Asset Strategies Group. He brings some very solid skills to the Board.

Welcome, Chuck. We appreciate your service and look forward to your contributions.