Q&A with Salerno Duane General Manager Mike Salerno

Business Profile by John White

Mike Salerno, General Sales Manager, Salerno Duane Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep & Ram

Mike, tell us about Salerno Duane?

Salerno Duane has been in Summit for over 30 years and now on our 3rd generation of family in the business. In all we have four dealerships, with two in Summit – Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and Ford.

Tell us how you got to your current role as general sales manager?

It’s been 15 years of working in multiple jobs from auto detailing, doing inventory in the parts department and selling my first car at 19. Over that time I also graduated from Mendham High School and went to Penn State. I always knew I wanted to be in the family business.

How do you like to approach the sales process at the dealership?

We just want to treat people right by listening to their thoughts, find out what they want, their needs and concerns. We are not looking to steer them in the buying process. We gain folks' trust by listening to their needs. Our reviews are strong – and we are community driven, word of mouth key for us. We look to treat people right. And my goal as GSM is to be value driven and make the shopping experience a success and fun at the same time. The goal is also to make people want to come back to you when the time is right for them.

Key things folks should know about your Service Department & Body shop?

Our Service Department is the most intricate part of the business. If you treat people well there and provide adequate updates on peoples vehicles, it'll make people come back and continue to do business with you. Curtis, our service manager, is well aware of that. The body shop is something I really want to start promoting more throughout our community. Chris is a master at fixing any type of vehicle. If you are in the unfortunate situation that you need work done to your vehicle, we are here to fix it as soon as possible, and if requested ahead of time, we can even provide you with a loaner vehicle.

What’s a product trend for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep & Ram?

FCA (the parent company) has listened to Americans and tailored their product line with the main focus being on SUVs. Key among them is the new 2020 Jeep Gladiator, a new body style Wrangler in 2018, a redesigned Cherokee in 2019, and a redesigned 2019 Ram 1500.

What do you do in your spare time?

I’m a big sports fan: Giants, Yankees, Knicks (unfortunately) and Rangers. Avid golfer as well, a member at Morris County Golf Club.

Big picture goals in your role as GSM?

Promote the Salerno Duane name within the community, continue strong ties with Summit and surrounding neighborhoods – like Chatham & Madison! Treat people right, grow the Salerno-Duane brand and continue the tradition as a third generation car dealer.

33 Main St, Chatham, NJ 973-701-2200 • www.chathambraces.com

Barbara Fodero, DDS, MS