Bill O'Hara, VP & GM of Operations, Mercedes-Benz/Sprinter of Hoffman Estates, Zeigler Auto Group
O’Hara’s automotive career began in 1977, while he was still in high school, taking on a part-time porter position. This entry-level role was the starting point of an impressive climb through the ranks. He diligently worked his way through sales and various management positions, gaining invaluable insights into customer service and operational efficiency. These early experiences laid the foundation for his future success, culminating in owning his own dealership from 1994 to 2012. A significant milestone in his career was achieving 2,000 unit sales of new and used vehicles in 1999 at his own dealership, a testament to his business acumen and customer-centric approach.
Today, his responsibilities extend beyond the Hoffman Estates Mercedes dealership. In addition to Mercedes-Benz/Sprinter of Hoffman Estates, Bill also oversees INFINITI of Hoffman Estates, and Jaguar Land Rover Schaumburg. His promotion to this expanded role in January 2020 followed years of proven leadership within Zeigler Auto Group. He initially joined Zeigler in 2013 as the General Manager of BMW of Orland Park. Following Zeigler’s acquisition of MINI of Orland Park, Zeigler Nissan of Orland Park, and INFINITI of Orland Park in 2015, Bill’s responsibilities grew further. He was then promoted to VP and GM of Operations in Orland Park, a position he held until December 2019, before transitioning to his current multi-dealership leadership role which includes the Hoffman Estates Mercedes dealership.
A key aspect of Zeigler Auto Group that resonates with Bill is its commitment to internal growth. He experienced this “promote-from-within” culture firsthand during his time in Orland Park and is keen to foster the same environment at Hoffman Estates and Schaumburg. This philosophy is central to Zeigler’s identity as a family-owned and family-run organization. Bill highlights Aaron Zeigler, the CEO, as an inspirational leader who has cultivated a positive and engaging workplace culture. The aim is to create an environment where employees are genuinely motivated and excited to come to work, knowing that there are opportunities for advancement within the company, especially within locations like the Hoffman Estates Mercedes dealership.
Outside of his demanding role overseeing operations, including the Hoffman Estates Mercedes dealership, Bill resides in Orland Park, IL, with his wife Wanda. They have been married for 32 years and have three adult children. In his leisure time, Bill, originally from Michigan, enjoys family life, particularly spending time with his grandson. His hobbies include golfing and boating, and he also maintains a 25-year tradition of professional snowmobile drag racing with his son, showcasing his passion for both family and high-octane pursuits. Bill O’Hara’s extensive experience and leadership are invaluable assets, driving success and a positive culture at the Hoffman Estates Mercedes dealership and across his wider responsibilities within Zeigler Auto Group.
