Bill O’Hara stands as a pivotal figure in the automotive industry, currently serving as the VP & GM of Operations for Mercedes-Benz of Hoffman Estates. His journey, marked by decades of experience and a deep understanding of customer service, has culminated in his leadership role at this prestigious dealership. Before joining the Zeigler Auto Group, O’Hara had already established himself as an automotive veteran, showcasing his expertise across various management positions and even as a dealership owner for nearly two decades.
Bill O'Hara, Vice President and General Manager at Mercedes-Benz of Hoffman Estates, poses in front of the dealership. His leadership drives exceptional customer service and operations at this Mercedes-Benz location in Hoffman Estates.
O’Hara’s automotive career began in 1977 as a part-time porter, while he was still attending high school. This entry-level position was the starting point of a climb through the ranks of sales and management. During this ascent, he honed essential skills in customer service, recognizing its paramount importance in building a successful business. This dedication to service and operational excellence was instrumental in his achievements, including leading his own dealership to an impressive 2,000 unit sales year in 1999, encompassing both new and used vehicles.
Today, Bill O’Hara’s responsibilities extend beyond Mercedes-Benz/Sprinter of Hoffman Estates, encompassing INFINITI of Hoffman Estates, and Jaguar Land Rover Schaumburg. His promotion to this expanded role in January 2020 followed a successful trajectory within Zeigler Auto Group, where he held various leadership positions since joining in 2013. His initial role at Zeigler was as GM of BMW of Orland Park. Subsequently, with Zeigler’s acquisition of MINI of Orland Park, Zeigler Nissan of Orland Park, and INFINITI of Orland Park in 2015, O’Hara was elevated to VP and GM of Operations in Orland Park. He served in this regional leadership capacity until December of the previous year, before taking on his current multi-dealership role which includes Mercedes-Benz of Hoffman Estates.
A key aspect of Zeigler Auto Group that resonates with O’Hara is its commitment to internal promotion. He experienced this firsthand at the Orland Park locations and is enthusiastic about fostering the same culture at both Hoffman Estates and Schaumburg. This “promote-from-within” philosophy is central to Zeigler’s family-owned and operated ethos, which O’Hara deeply values. He emphasizes the inspiring leadership of CEO Aaron Zeigler and the positive and engaging work environment fostered within the company. For O’Hara, seeing employees advance within the company and achieve their personal career aspirations is a significant motivator.
Outside of his demanding role overseeing operations at dealerships including Mercedes-Benz of Hoffman Estates, Bill O’Hara resides in Orland Park, IL, with his wife Wanda. They have been married for 32 years and have three adult children. In his personal time, O’Hara, originally from Michigan, enjoys family time, particularly with his grandson. His leisure pursuits also include golfing and boating, and he maintains a 25-year tradition of professional snowmobile drag racing with his son. However, his professional focus remains sharp on driving success and maintaining high standards at Mercedes-Benz of Hoffman Estates and his other dealerships, leveraging his extensive experience and dedication to customer and employee satisfaction.
