Alyssa McGhee found the aftermarket by chance, and stayed for the passion and people in this industry. “It truly is unlike any other industry I have been a part of, and it feels small once you’re in it,” she said.

In this installment of “5 Minutes With…,” get to know McGhee, her role at MAHLE Aftermarket, industry involvement, preferences for continuing education, and much more.

aftermarketNews: Tell us about your role and what you like best about it. 

Alyssa McGhee: When I started with MAHLE, I was in a digital marketing coordinator role handling all things digital – from social, web, video and onsite content coordination. This past November I stepped into the Head of Regional Marketing NA for MAHLE Aftermarket. I handle the marketing efforts for both our engine components and peripherals as well as our shop solutions equipment. I get to work with brilliant people day in and day out that make the magic happen. I love the people I get to work with at MAHLE, our partners and those within the industry. 

AMN: What attracted you to the automotive aftermarket? 

McGhee: I am a transplant to the automotive aftermarket. I moved to Detroit with my husband, and it only took a few years before the automotive industry drew me in. I found the aftermarket by chance, but I stayed for the passion and people in this industry. It truly is unlike any other industry I have been a part of, and it feels small once you’re in it – which I loved coming from a background of working with smaller companies than MAHLE.  

AMN: Tell us about your industry involvement.  

McGhee: I am a board member for the Automotive Communications Council (ACC) and participate in events with the Young Auto Care Network Group (YANG), the Marketing Executives Council (MEC) and Women in Auto Care. The industry provides great ways for our community to engage and interact. It has helped me not only meet many wonderful people, but also has pushed me professionally to get out of my comfort zone and have a sounding board for innovative ideas.

AMN: What do you like to do outside of work? Tell us about your hobbies and interests. 

McGhee: Apart from work, I am a runner, golfer and we have a dinner group of friends who have met every week for five years. My husband and I love to travel, and we often backpack and ski with friends and family. I am an Ohio State Alumni and sports are a big part of me and my family’s lives. 

AMN: Name a favorite trip you’ve made or one place on your “bucket list” you’d like to see. 

McGhee: One of my favorite places in the US is Zion National Park, it is breathtaking. When I graduated college, my best friend and I spent three weeks in Europe from Rome to Paris – we had the time of our lives. 

AMN: What was the last book you read or are currently reading? 

McGhee: Fun level: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (always been a big Hunger Games fan);
Professional Level: Creative Trespassing 

AMN: What do you do for continuing education? Tell us about your favorite newsletters, podcasts, etc.  

McGhee: There are a few different ways I continue to learn – in the ever-changing environment we are in, you are either learning or falling behind! I subscribe to a handful of aftermarket and marketing specific eNewsletters for news, marketing and updates in the latest industry trends. I also regularly sign up for LinkedIn courses, either related to marketing, communications, AI or analytics. I enjoy YouTube for a handful of different topics; personally, I am not a big podcast person and prefer to visually learn.

AMN: What is the marketing trend that piques your interest right now? 

McGhee: AI, content marketing, and SEO/SEM. Social media continues to be a growing trend in our industry as well and MAHLE tries to capitalize on these platforms to help engage with our audiences in compelling ways whether that’s through video or intriguing storytelling. It really helps bring the MAHLE brand to life. 

AMN: What is one word would your coworkers use to describe you?  

McGhee: Inquisitive. I am always open to learning and understanding new industry trends. I am always asking questions to better understand things and to constantly evolve and grow in my role at MAHLE. 

AMN: What is one mantra or piece of advice you live by?  

McGhee: I had a mentor early on in my career who preached that the only thing you can control is yourself. Your reaction, your mentality, your work ethic, etc. That has stayed with me in every role I have held both in my professional and personal life.  

-Read more interesting stories about familiar faces in the aftermarket by visiting “5 Minutes With…” here.