Charles Zheng, finance director of Atlantic Honda and Advantage Honda, has been named a 2025 honoree of CBT News’ 40 Under 40 awards. The recognition highlights rising leaders in retail automotive who demonstrate strong performance, adaptability, and long-term commitment to the industry.
He oversees finance operations across two Honda dealerships and manages a team of seven finance managers. In his role, he is responsible for credit approvals, compliance oversight, and performance management, and works closely with dealership leadership to ensure a consistent, efficient customer experience across both rooftops. Advantage Honda was acquired approximately a year and a half ago, adding complexity and opportunity to his responsibilities.
Zheng began his career in his early twenties on the sales floor and quickly distinguished himself, becoming the first salesperson at his dealership promoted to F&I manager. He credits his previous director for giving him a chance, and his mission now is to develop and encourage other salespeople to move into F&I. Currently, six of his seven direct reports were promoted from the sales floor.
While the F&I department has historically been one of the most profitable areas of a dealership on a per-square-foot basis, the post-COVID market has required meaningful adjustments. Zheng has implemented changes that streamlined workflows, making transactions faster, simpler, and more transparent. He reports that per-copy results have more than tripled under his leadership, marking one of the proudest accomplishments of his career.
Looking ahead, his focus is on sustainability and growth. Over the next five years, he aims to continue elevating the finance department while supporting his general manager, Robert Kiernan, a fellow CBT News 40 Under 40 honoree in 2023.
After 20 years in the business and 17 years of marriage, Zheng says his passion for the work, the people, and the industry remains strong, and he is committed to continuing to build on that foundation.
