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Monday, December 23, 2024

2020 20 Under 40: Stacey Cole

Brand & Marketing Director, Joe Machens Dealerships

Stacey Cole has a unique role at Joe Machens Dealerships as their brand and marketing director.

“I team up with general managers to build marketing campaigns and strategies for each of our nine dealerships as well as for the Machens brand,” says Stacey. “I’m privileged to work with awesome community and business partners throughout Mid-Missouri executing philanthropic and community outreach and events and sponsorships.”

In this role, she has a lot to be proud of. Stacey completely restructured the sponsorship and donation process for Joe Machens and launched the Machens Drives Education Scholarship Program in Mid-Missouri in 2019. Additionally, Stacey took all marketing buys and strategic planning in-house, which resulted in a 100% increase in gross rating points and a 25% cost savings.

“Stacey’s fantastic attitude and professional competency is outstanding,” says Eric Olsen, general manager at Joe Machens. “She has a great can-do outlook and is not afraid to tackle any challenge.”

Stacey was chosen to participate in the Columbia Chamber of Commerce’s 2018 Leadership Columbia class and, in 2019, was listed as a 40 Under 40 honoree for Auto Remarketing magazine.

She is intrinsically motivated and competitive by nature. “I love to learn and grow my skill sets, so learning motivates me and pushes me to grow in new areas, allowing me to discover new opportunities and new victories,” she says.

“Her demeanor makes her a positive force in any meeting or at any event,” says Krista Swenson, senior director of people and culture at McLarty Automotive Group. “Stacey truly cares about her colleagues, constituents, and her community.”

Danny Hammack, general manager and partner at Columbia Honda, says Stacey’s attitude is contagious and has helped guide their auto group to all-time record performances. “She brings a vast amount of market experience as well as a unique perspective provided by her experience in the current director of brands role,” he says.

Stacey’s priorities are her faith, family, and career. “I married my high school sweetheart — we celebrated our 15-year wedding anniversary this past year,” she says. “I want to glorify God in everything I do, with a gracious and humble heart. Having this perspective guides my attitude and daily decision making.”

Age: 36

Fun Fact: Stacey has a crush on Steven Tyler of Aerosmith.

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