Alan Drungell
Regional sales manager | McCarthy Tire Service Co. Inc. | Macungie, Pa. | Age: 34
What was your first job in the industry?
Commercial sales representative.
What attracted you to the industry?
My uncle had built a successful career in the industry and I wanted to follow the legacy and build my career in it as well.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your career?
Transitioning from a sales rep role of eight-and-a-half years into a manager role, responsible for the success of my team of sales reps. I faced the role head on and with enthusiasm and determination. After two successful years in the role, I am ready to continue challenging myself to do more in my career.
Who has had the biggest influence on your career?
My father and my uncle, both of whom have built success from sales and operations backgrounds. I look to them for mentorship and advice on how to take my knowledge and expertise to the next level constantly.
What is your biggest accomplishment in the industry?
My biggest accomplishment would be in the leadership role I currently operate in. I have managed to develop more leaders amongst our team. When you see the results of your efforts in your people, and the progress you have (had) have influence on, there is in my opinion no greater accomplishment.
Tell us about your current job and responsibilities. How do you spend your workday?
I spend my workday collaborating with my team of sales reps., our managers, and operations team to manage our customer base in each market. Our goals are simple — take care of our existing customers consistently while capturing new market share. We do this through showing our customers the family business that has been built over the last 98 years that can service fleets of any size, and the extra mile we go to make sure we keep them rolling. It’s true partnerships that we develop as a company that separates us from our competitors, and we have the results to back it!
What's been the biggest surprise of your current job?
How quickly the job has expanded in just two years. My team started with 14 sales reps, and now has grown to 20. I started with eight stores and have increased to 11. Our company continues to grow at a fast rate and I have jumped right in for the ride. It’s a surprise and a gift of the industry as I always say. If you show up, work hard day in and day out, no matter where you started or where you came from, you can be successful in this industry, which is what I love about it.
Tell us about your family.
I am happily married to my wife, Amanda of seven years and we have two beautiful children, Isaac, 4, and Isabel, 2. They are truly our pride and joy. My family is the main reason I do what I do every day. I not only want to bring value to the company I work for, but all of what I put in each day is to build the legacy for my family and be an example to my children of what working hard will get you in life.
If you could wake up tomorrow with one new skill, what would you choose?
Be financially savvy. I have a solid knowledge but would love to know more about how to invest my earnings.
In a single word, how would your friends describe you?
Responsible. I’ve always been the one who looks out for everyone’s wellbeing and makes sure everyone has a good time when we’re all together. It’s just innate in me, but I truly enjoy it.
If you could switch careers tomorrow, what would you want to do, and why?
I wouldn’t change careers at the present time. If I were to do anything else, it would be to own my own business, as I have a passion for it and have always wanted to start my own.
What's the biggest issue facing the tire industry?
Finding good help. From managers, to salespeople, to skilled technicians, our industry, much like many, struggles to find qualified people to work in our locations. The world is changing quickly on how you can obtain an income. We need to continue to campaign and attract good talent, as our people are the backbone of our company.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be an accountant, as I love numbers. I learned as I went on that sales was more my style, since it was a numbers game but allowed me to be in front of people and develop relationships. In my opinion, it’s the best job out there.
How do you unwind after a stressful day?
Spending time with my family and being fully present with them. Seeing the world through my kids’ eyes allows my stress to melt away.
What goal did you set for yourself this year? Are you on track to reach it?
Hit our sales goals we put forth for 2024. We have obtained 99% of our goal. Considering the interesting year it’s been, I am happy with that. We still have the fourth quarter to hit a home run!
What do you expect to be doing 20 years from now?
Overseeing the company with ownership in a vice president role would be ideal. It’s a goal I’ll never give up on.
