May 10
19
Barbara Hammond- Rolling With Change
After Market Associate Has Grown Personally and Professionally With West Herr
18 years ago, Barbara Hammond started as a temporary greeter with West Herr. Today, she works in the accounting department at the corporate office. When asked why temporary turned into long term, she sums it up simply yet effectively.
Barbara Hammon at the West Herr Corporate Offices in Blasdell, NY
“If there’s one thing I’ve learned in life, it’s that everything is subject to change,” she said. Barbara also says she values these changes and where they have taken her.
“There are just so many different opportunities in this company, I really like the flexibility and variety,” she said.
Barbara Hammond has lived that variety first hand. She started at the West Herr Saturn of Orchard Park store as a greeter. She then moved on to become the first greeter ever at Ford of Hamburg.
She went full time in 1993 and then moved on to work in leasing, financing and eventually to her current position. Barbara is an aftermarket associate who deals with payment plans and financing statements on a daily basis.
“My time at West Herr has certainly taught me how to adjust,” she said.
She says that West Herr’s family atmosphere and care for their employees have kept her here so long. She credits the owners with making employees feel cared for and “like people, not a number.” She also praised the company’s communication and feedback process.
“When you’re told you’re doing a good job, it just makes you want to do a better one,’ she said. “You always feel like you’re in the loop at West Herr.”
Outside of work, Barbara Hammond lives the family values that West Herr promotes. She has been married to her husband Tom for 34 years and has three children. She is particularly excited about the wedding of her oldest daughter, Melissa, coming up in October. She’s heavily involved with her church and is an avid gardener. All in all she says she’s happy with her life and will continue to focus on her career.
“My philosophy is to always be busy,” she said of her work. With people like Barbara Hammond in key positions, it’s clear why West Herr has grown from one dealership into a thriving, community oriented enterprise.