Bill O’Hara stands as a distinguished figure in the automotive industry, currently serving as the VP & GM of Operations for Mercedes-Benz of Hoffman Estates. His journey is a testament to dedication and a deep-seated passion for cars and customer service, marking him as a pivotal leader within Zeigler Auto Group. Before his impactful role at Mercedes-Benz of Hoffman Estates, O’Hara cultivated a rich career spanning decades, demonstrating expertise across various facets of the automotive business.
A Storied Career in Automotive
O’Hara’s automotive odyssey began in 1977, while still in high school, taking on a part-time porter position. This entry-level role was the starting line for a career marked by consistent growth and learning. As he ascended through sales and management positions, he absorbed invaluable lessons about customer interaction and the critical role of service excellence in business success. This foundation proved instrumental when O’Hara ventured into dealership ownership from 1994 to 2012. A high point was in 1999 when his dealership achieved an impressive 2,000-unit sales year, encompassing both new and used vehicles, showcasing his acumen and leadership in the competitive automotive market.
From Porter to VP & GM
The skills honed over years of dedicated service propelled O’Hara to his current multi-faceted role. Today, he not only oversees Mercedes-Benz of Hoffman Estates but also holds the VP & GM position for INFINITI of Hoffman Estates and Jaguar Land Rover Schaumburg. His promotion to this encompassing role in January 2020 was preceded by significant leadership positions within Zeigler Auto Group since joining in 2013. His initial appointment was as GM of BMW of Orland Park, quickly followed by expanded responsibilities in 2015 when Zeigler acquired MINI of Orland Park, Zeigler Nissan of Orland Park, and INFINITI of Orland Park. O’Hara was then promoted to VP and GM of Operations in Orland Park, a regional oversight role he held until December 2019, setting the stage for his current leadership at Mercedes-Benz of Hoffman Estates and the Schaumburg locations.
Zeigler Auto Group Leadership
A key factor in O’Hara’s satisfaction with Zeigler Auto Group is its commitment to internal promotion, a culture he actively fostered in the Orland Park locations and is keen to continue at Mercedes-Benz of Hoffman Estates and Schaumburg. He emphasizes the unique family-owned and operated nature of Zeigler, praising CEO Aaron Zeigler’s vision and the engaging culture that encourages employees to be enthusiastic about their work. This focus on internal growth is a personal priority for O’Hara, who values seeing employees advance within the company and achieve their professional aspirations.
Culture and Vision at Mercedes-Benz of Hoffman Estates
O’Hara’s leadership at Mercedes-Benz of Hoffman Estates is deeply influenced by these principles. He aims to create an environment where career advancement and a positive workplace atmosphere are paramount. This philosophy extends to customer interactions, ensuring that the high standards associated with the Mercedes-Benz brand are consistently met and exceeded.
Family and Personal Life
Residing in Orland Park, IL, with his wife Wanda of 32 years, O’Hara is a family man with three adult children. Courtney, Kelly, and Will have all established their own successful careers. Notably, Will O’Hara is following in his father’s footsteps as the current GM of BMW of Orland Park, highlighting a continued family legacy in the automotive sector. Outside of his demanding professional life, O’Hara, originally from Michigan, enjoys family time, particularly with his grandson. His leisure activities include golfing, boating, and a 25-year tradition of professional snowmobile drag racing with his son, showcasing a well-rounded life beyond his significant contributions to the automotive industry and Mercedes-Benz of Hoffman Estates.
