How AutoNation is promoting diverse and inclusive hiring practices – Rock Anderson

Here at CBT News, we’ve had several discussions with prominent figures on diversity in the retail automotive industry. AutoNation, the largest retailer in the country, has had tremendous success in hiring and retaining African-Americans and other minorities. Today, we’re joined by Rock Anderson, Senior Vice President of Human Resources for AutoNation, who discusses recruiting and hiring minorities, and the importance of promoting diversity.

In this segment, Anderson and anchor Jim Fitzpatrick discuss AutoNation’s great reputation for attracting and retaining women, African-Americans, and other minority groups. We find out how Anderson sustains diverse recruiting practices, and what needs to change industry-wide in order to have better minority representation at the dealership and OEM levels.

Then pair then tackle the impact that diversity continues to have in the retail auto industry, and the unique set of challenges in this area brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, Anderson talks about the importance of supporting AutoNation employees with an ongoing diversity training program.

Rock Anderson brings nearly 20 years of top-level human resources experience to AutoNation. Prior to joining the company, Anderson held the position of Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer for Cox Automotive. He also served as the Regional Vice President and President of People Strategies at Manheim. In addition, he held several executive positions at Siemens, Wachovia Bank (now Wells Fargo), and INROADS Inc.