Biography of Howard Wilner
Howard Wilner’s leadership is persistent and visionary. He has extensive experience in the
automotive industry, including business development and dealership operations He has also explored property investment and established himself as an entrepreneur and mentor.
Much of his professional career was spent developing Automax Preowned. With the company, he honed his ability to build businesses that meet customer needs while improving management and service standards
A Path Shaped by Education and Dedication
Howard’s early education laid the foundation for his lifelong pursuit of learning He graduated from Framingham North High School in 1984 and attended Massachusetts Bay Community College. He later took courses at Framingham State College and Boston College.
This academic experience strengthened his understanding of business administration and management, providing practical knowledge applicable to the automotive industry
Outside academics, he focused on personal and professional growth. He balanced entrepreneurial goals with a commitment to family life Now married with three children, he credits his education and negotiation skills as key contributors to his success
From Dealer to Executive Leader
In 1990, Howard Wilner launched Automax Preowned The dealership quickly earned a reputation for quality and reliability.
Automax expanded rapidly, growing to seven locations before consolidating into two major flagship outlets. He attributes this growth to a strategic approach and a customer-first mindset.
In 2000, he founded Mina Property Group, focusing on commercial property acquisitions, which diversified his business interests.
He later led New England AutoMax, Inc , overseeing all departmental operations and achieving 13% sales growth by 2010. As president of the company’s Marlboro, Massachusetts service center, he managed factory-direct services for all vehicle makes and models
His tenure as president of Marlboro Auto Exchange demonstrated his ability to guide companies in competitive markets As one of New England’s largest independent dealers, the company reflects its skill in building and sustaining successful businesses.
Leadership Beyond the Showroom
Howard’s work extends beyond sales and operations He often emphasizes leadership development, especially for new managers. He advises against dominating conversations to
prove oneself, stressing that effective leadership requires listening and understanding team dynamics.
He encourages managers to inspire their teams and invest in relationships. Credibility, he believes, comes from consistent action and authenticity.
His guidance comes from real experience. He has led teams through dynamic environments and competitive challenges, helping leaders build resilience and maintain focus His influence extends beyond his companies, offering practical wisdom to emerging leaders
Community and Professional Engagement
Howard is active in professional and community organizations, including Rotary International, the Boston College Club, the Charter Oak Golf Club, NHREIA, and the New England Society. These memberships reflect his commitment to networking, community involvement, and staying connected to industry and civic life
Automax Preowned: A Customer-First Dealership
Automax Preowned represents Howard’s vision of making high-quality vehicles accessible to customers The dealership is a trusted source for pre-owned cars, offering a balance of quality and affordability.
It offers an inventory of late-model foreign and domestic vehicles, often priced below industry benchmarks Customers receive comprehensive support throughout the selection process, including financing tailored to their specific needs and budgets
Even buyers with less-than-perfect credit can access loans through Automax’s finance department Howard ensures the dealership provides guidance and reliable service, building trust and long-term customer loyalty.
A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation
Howard’s career reflects a balance of entrepreneurial drive and practical leadership. From his education to the creation of Automax Preowned and Mina Property Group, he has shown steady growth and adaptability His focus on developing leadership skills demonstrates a belief that success comes from vision and credibility.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Howard Wilner’s career highlights the value of combining experience with innovation. His story shows how dedication and thoughtful leadership can shape successful businesses and leave a lasting impact on both the industry and the community