Branch Manager

Job Title: Branch ManagerLocation: Watertown South DakotaCompany: I-State Truck Center

I-State Truck Center is a premier heavy-duty truck dealership and service network representing Freightliner, Western Star, and other leading OEM brands across the Upper Midwest. Our Watertown location is a high-volume, full-service dealership offering parts and service operations.

Position Overview

The Branch Manager is the senior leader of the Watertown dealership and is fully accountable for all financial performance, customer experience, employee engagement, and operational excellence. This is a highly visible, entrepreneurial leadership role ideal for a proven dealership GM or an ambitious multi-department manager ready to take full P&L ownership of a multi-million-dollar revenue operation.

Since 1957, Interstate Companies, Inc. has grown from one of the world’s first Detroit Diesel distributors into a dynamic, family-owned organization that proudly serves the transportation industry. Today, more than 1,700 team members across our corporate office and five operating divisions—Interstate Assembly Systems, Interstate Bearing Systems, Interstate Energy Systems, Interstate Power Systems, and I-State Truck Center—live our “Pride in Service” promise every day.

The Role as Branch Manager, you are the face of I-State Truck Center in the South Dakota market. You will lead all parts and service operations while building lasting industry relationships and delivering the exceptional customer experience that has defined our reputation for nearly 70 years.

Key Responsibilities

• Full P&L ownership – achieve or exceed annual revenue, gross profit, and net operating income targets.
• Lead all departments (Parts, Service, and Administration).
• Develop and execute annual business plans, forecasts, and capital expenditure requests.
• Recruit, develop, and retain a high-performing leadership team (Service Manager, Parts Manager, etc.).
• Oversee facility maintenance, appearance, and compliance with OEM image standards and all federal/state regulations (DOT, OSHA, EPA, etc.).
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key fleet customers, OEM representatives (Freightliner/Western Star/Daimler Truck North America), and vendor partners.
• Champion a safe, ethical, and inclusive workplace culture aligned with company values.
• Actively participate in 20-Group and OEM council meetings and implement best practices across the dealership.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum 5–10 years of progressive leadership experience in a heavy- or medium-duty truck dealership (Freightliner, Peterbilt, Kenworth, International, etc.).
• Proven full P&L management experience with annual revenues exceeding multiple millions.
• Demonstrated success growing market share and improving profitability in a competitive commercial truck market.
• Strong financial acumen – ability to read and react to financial statements, absorb fixed operations, and maximize F&I penetration.
• Deep knowledge of parts & service absorption, warranty administration, and extended warranty programs.
• Exceptional leadership, coaching, and team-building skills with a track record of developing talent and reducing turnover.
• Excellent communication and customer-facing skills; comfortable presenting to large fleet customers and OEM executives.
• Proficiency with CDK, Pfizer/Procede, Karmak, or similar dealership management systems.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to maintain a Class B CDL (or willingness to obtain).

Preferred (Not Required)

• Prior General Manager or multi-department management experience at a Freightliner or Western Star dealership.

Compensation & Benefits

• Highly competitive base salary + performance-based bonus program (uncapped).
• Full benefits package including health, dental, vision, 401(k) with match, paid time off, and OEM training.
• Company vehicle will be provided.
• Relocation assistance available for the right candidate.

Employee Benefits

• Competitive Wages: Earn what you’re worth with a strong salary and commission structure.
• Tuition Assistance: Support for educational and career growth.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Health, dental, and vision plans starting the first day of the following month.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Begins accruing on day one of full-time employment.
• Holidays: 6 holidays plus 2 floating holidays per year.
• 401(K): Company matching to support your future.
• Disability and Life Insurance: Long-term and short-term disability and life insurance provided.
• Healthiest You: Virtual healthcare access paid by Interstate.
• Pet Insurance: Coverage for your furry friends.
• Employee Discounts: Available on products and services.
• Employee Assistance Program: Free 24/7 access to guidance for life’s challenges.
• Health and Well-being Screening: Paid screenings for employees and their spouses.

Note: This job description is not exhaustive, and duties may evolve to meet business needs.

Interstate Companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome all qualified candidates to apply by submitting a resume for consideration.

Apply Now: Join our team and lead field service excellence at I-State Truck Centers!

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