Jess Fainberg - aftermarketNews

2022 Honoree

Jess Fainberg

Community Liaison
Auto Care Association

How did you begin your career in the aftermarket?

I started with the Auto Care Association in 2017, after opting for a complete career path change. In primarily an administrative role to begin, I started to learn more about the industry and the different business channels. About six months later, I accepted a position that would officially begin my membership-facing career with Auto Care. Over the past five years, my role has evolved and grown into taking over the Rep Council and YANG as their liaison. My role is the primary manager for both these groups.

What is the proudest accomplishment of your career, thus far?

Being named to the 2022 Class of AMN Women at the Wheel is an incredible honor, thank you. I’m very proud of the progress of YANG, one of the communities that I manage for the Auto Care Association. These young professional leaders are beginning their volunteer careers in the industry and guiding them to think bigger to continue to grow of the group and the YANG brand. The group continues to grow and expand their reach, evolving into the largest Auto Care Association community.

How do you build up your confidence to prepare for challenging professional situations?

In this industry, confidence is a big key to success. But, understanding yourself and your strengths vs. weaknesses is equally as key. As a college graduation gift, one of my mentors gave a copy of “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz. I try my best to live by the words below, which really help prepare me for everyday challenging professional situations:

  1. Be impeccable with your word.
  2. Don’t take anything personally.
  3. Don’t make assumptions.
  4. Always do your best.

What do you believe are some of the most important skillsets to excel in a career in the aftermarket today?

The ability to adapt and willingness to change. The one constant in our industry is that it is evolving and changing. While change is often difficult, having the ability to adapt and embrace the change will help set you up for success in your career. The volunteer leadership groups that I manage work hard to keep their communities progressing and during the pandemic, their ability to adapt and find ways to help others in our industry was incredibly impressive.