Cal-Tex Promotes Tim Akard to VP of Sales
Cal-Tex has promoted Tim Akard to vice president of sales. Akard started his career with Ford Motor Credit and has extensive experience in the design and administration of self-insured and reinsured products and services for franchised dealers.
SCHERTZ, Texas — Cal-Tex Protective Coatings has promoted Tim Akard to vice president of sales. A 35-year veteran of the auto industry, Akard is a former Ford dealer and served on the Ford National Dealer Council.
Akard, who began his automotive career with Ford Motor Credit, also has extensive experience in the design and administration of self-insured and reinsured products and services for franchised car dealers.
Gary Osborn, Cal-Tex’s co-founder and director, will assume the newly created position of executive vice president of revenue development. He will be responsible for the development of new programs and products for Cal-Tex. He will also explore new opportunities in overseas markets.
Osborn will also be looking for strategic partners for the creation of relevant “bundled products,” in addition to pursuing acquisition opportunities. He will be working closely with Akard to promote a smooth transition and build momentum for future success, officials said.
More F&I
Amplify 2026 Billed as Turning Innovation Into Results
Reynolds and Reynolds says its annual retail summit will connect dealers with practical strategies, peer insight, and technology-driven ideas.
Read More →
Own Your Outcome: F&I in the Digital Customer Journey
Finance has historically been the last step in the car-buying process, but it doesn’t have to be. The customer’s journey starts long before they arrive at the dealership, and so should F&I’s involvement.
Read More →
Tariffs Could Raise Insurance Premiums
As U.S. import tariffs affect repair costs, consumers might find it more affordable to replace a damaged vehicle, according to recent Insurify tariff analysis.
Read More →
Smaller Loans, Longer Terms
The youngest generation of car buyers is more likely to finance less expensive vehicles, more than half of generation Z consumers borrowing less than $25,000.
Read More →
New Lifetime Battery F&I Product Meant to Drive Dealer Traffic
EFG Cos. offering is intended to create lifetime auto dealer engagement with customers.
Read More →
The Psychology Behind Menus That Increase Add-On Sales
There is a science to crafting a menu that gives customers confidence in the choices presented, and moving the process outside the F&I office can further boost results.
Read More →
Why Your F&I PVR Is Misleading You
Here’s a handy checklist of the numbers to track in 2026 instead.
Read More →
Auto Consumer Anxiety Presents Opportunity
A survey of U.S. drivers found the majority are concerned about finances and the economy, but those fears make many ready to buy vehicle-protection products.
Read More →
Humble and Hungry: 12 Rules for an F&I Life
Dustin Gingerich, with a decade in the F&I business under his belt, shares his thoughts on leadership, building trust with customers, and the importance of learning and innovation.
Read More →
Focus on the Opening
F&I managers must learn as much as possible about their customers, starting before they walk into their offices. The bulk of today’s consumers expect that, and good results will follow.
Read More →