40 Under 40: Rachel Strunk
F&I Manager; Tom Schaeffer’s Camping & Travel Center; With company: 6 years | Industry experience: 6 years
At Tom Schaeffer’s Camping & Travel Center, Rachel Strunk provides results with a smile. Described as kind and professional, Rachel provides customers and associates with her best to make sure customers get the best rates and coverage and associates have the information they need to grow their abilities.
“Rachel puts in countless hours working hard to get our customers the best rate on their purchase. She professionally presents all extra coverages with absolutely no pressure. She always manages to distinguish herself with market knowledge and valuable suggestions. She cares about her customers and wants them to be happy,” says nominator Mary Reinhart.
Rachel holds daily meetings with sales personnel and goes over their individual performance and status of customer loans so they can grow and learn. Rachel has a proven track record of success. This past year her department had the largest increase despite the unsettled market, and last month the finance department exceeded its best month in the company’s 70 years of business.
“She is always positive, has innovative ideas and always wears a smile. As an employer, I witness how readily she shares knowledge and skills. With her help, our sales staff can grow in their abilities so they can provide outstanding service to our customers as well. Her perspective adds so much to our team and helps us uncover so many opportunities. She is an asset to our company,” Mary says.
Rachel’s kindness doesn’t end with her customers and associates. Rachel loves dogs and welcomes them to the pet-friendly dealership as warmly as anyone else.
“She has her own treat bag and gives them endless kisses. She is also the official pet walker. We let our employees bring their dog to work for the day, and Rachel will walk them on her lunch,” Mary says. “Our customers love the attention that their furry friend gets from her.”
Mary says its Rachel’s personal touch that makes the difference. “She is very knowledgeable, professional and not pushy. Customers adore her. She explains every detail thoroughly making it a smooth transaction. She receives many great comments on her CSI ratings as well.”
When not at work, Rachel enjoys outdoor activities and going on cruises.
Rachel’s advice for up-and-coming leaders in the RV industry:
One of the best pieces of advice I carry with me came from my dad, who spent over 30 years in the automotive industry. He always said, “It’s all about attitude.” That simple phrase stuck with me, and it’s shaped how I show up every day: with positivity, resilience and a drive to lead by example. His passion for this industry inspired mine, and I hope to pass that same spirit on to others coming up in the RV world.
What it means to Rachel to be a 40 Under 40 honoree:
I was completely surprised — and really honored — to be named an honoree. Being part of a family-owned, customer-focused dealership that Mr. Tom Schaeffer started 70 years ago has shaped so much of who I am in this industry. I’m proud to carry on that legacy and be part of a company that truly values people and doing things the right way.
