2026 NADC Fall Conference

In their presentation, “Passing the Keys Without Crashing the Car: Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Dealership Succession Planning,” Sara Judge, along with Steven Bell of Ferguson Wellman Capital Management, Breanne Eagles of Baker Tilly, Kimberly Linebarger of HHM CPAs, and dealer principal Adam Silverleib of Silko Auto Group, will explore the legal, financial, tax, valuation, and operational challenges that can arise during dealership ownership transitions. Using a series of real-world succession planning scenarios, the panel will discuss practical strategies for helping dealership owners navigate family dynamics, manufacturer requirements, ownership transfers, and long-term business continuity planning.

Drawing on perspectives from legal, accounting, valuation, wealth management, and dealership leadership professionals, the presentation will examine how succession plans can be structured to avoid common pitfalls, preserve enterprise value, and support a successful transition to the next generation. The panel will also address key tax and estate planning considerations, valuation issues, and the unique challenges dealership owners face when balancing family relationships with business objectives.

Attendees will learn:

• Common reasons dealership succession plans fail and the proactive steps owners and advisors can take to minimize disruption and preserve business continuity.
• How tax, estate planning, and valuation considerations can influence ownership transfer strategies, including family transfers, employee ownership arrangements, and third-party sales.
• Practical approaches for navigating sensitive family, ownership, and manufacturer-related issues while developing a dealership-specific succession plan.

For more information, click here.