Meet the Team - Luke Edwards
Joining Volvo Cars Poole
Luke started at Volvo Cars Poole in July 2023, bringing over 25 years of experience in the motor trade to the team.
Current Role
As the Transaction Manager, Luke manages everything front of house, ensuring customers have an exceptional experience from the moment they enter the showroom to when they drive away in their new Volvo. Overseeing a team of eight sales executives, Luke is responsible for guiding the customer journey, balancing customer satisfaction with meeting business objectives.
“There's a lot of paperwork involved in our job, but the most important thing is the customers. Without them, we don't have a business,” Luke explains.
Professional Background
Luke has a rich history in the automotive industry, beginning his career in 1998. He started as a sales executive and quickly moved up the ranks to become a sales manager and brand manager. Over the years, Luke has worked with several major manufacturers, including a lengthy stint with Mercedes-Benz and Honda. Before joining Volvo Cars Poole, Luke spent nearly nine years as a sales manager for Mercedes-Benz and also managed Honda and Mazda dealerships.
Why Volvo Cars Poole?
After the COVID-19 pandemic led to significant changes in the industry, Luke took some time to decide on his next step. The opportunity at Volvo Cars Poole came up, and he saw it as a chance to work with a great team and continue his career with a respected brand.
“I knew of the business from my time with Mazda, and I knew it was a great opportunity. So I made the move, and it’s been a fantastic decision,” he shares.
Highlights of the Role
One of the standout moments for Luke at Volvo Cars Poole was building a strong sales team and seeing the business through the rollout of several electric cars. However, his favourite memory involves a customer who had driven the same car for over a decade and was very hesitant about switching to a new vehicle.
“I remember the time when I connected with the customer over shared interests, like gardening etc. This gentleman is a professional pen maker. In the end, not only did the customer buy a new Volvo, but he also made a pen for me as a thank you, which I now keep in my top drawer. That was a really special moment,” says Luke.
Looking to the Future
Luke is ambitious about the future at Volvo Cars Poole. “Our goal is to become the number one Volvo showroom, not just in our region but in the entire country. We’re currently fourth in the UK for sales volume, but we’re aiming to be on top.”
Favourite Volvo Model
For Luke, the Volvo XC40 Electric is his top choice. “I’m a big fan of electric cars, and the Volvo XC40 is a great introduction to the electric vehicle range. It offers low running costs, great performance, and a quiet, comfortable ride,” he explains.
Handling Customer Hesitations
When it comes to addressing customer hesitations about electric cars, Luke believes in sharing personal experiences. “Five years ago, I never thought I’d buy an electric car. But having been exposed to them and understanding the benefits, I’m fully convinced. It’s not just about being environmentally friendly; the product itself is better than petrol or diesel cars in many ways.”
Interesting Facts About Luke
Outside of work, Luke has had some unique experiences. “I’ve flown on the Concorde, which not many people have had the chance to do. But I’d say my biggest achievement in life is raising my family. I have three boys, and no matter what I’ve achieved professionally, my family is what I’m most proud of.”
Luke is a valuable member of the Volvo Cars Poole team, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a customer-first approach that enhances the dealership’s reputation for excellent service.
Accurate at time of publication [August 2024].