Trailblazer Spotlight: Vicki Baldwin, Assistant Service Manager
Trailblazer Spotlight: Vicki Baldwin, Assistant Service Manager
At Downtown Toyota, we are fortunate to have team members who bring passion, resilience, and leadership to their roles. Today, we celebrate Vicki Baldwin, our Assistant Service Manager and the latest recipient of the Trailblazer Award. Vicki exemplifies what it means to be a true leader, inspiring those around her with her dedication, positivity, and commitment to making a difference every day.
Vicki’s approach to work is deeply influenced by her upbringing. Growing up, her father—a superintendent in the mines—taught her the value of hard work and prioritisation. These lessons have shaped Vicki into someone who not only stays organised but also excels under pressure. “My dad always made time for what mattered most, and I approach life the same way. Family comes first, but everything else gets done because I make it a priority.”
Her ability to stay focused and manage her responsibilities seamlessly has made her an indispensable part of Downtown Toyota. “Adam rarely has to check in with me because we work so well together,” she says of her manager. “I stay ahead of tasks, and we’re a great team.” Despite her natural ability to manage a heavy workload, Vicki admits that delegating tasks can be a challenge. “It’s hard for me to let go because I want things done a certain way. But I’m learning to trust others and give them room to grow.”
Vicki’s ability to juggle multiple priorities while maintaining a high standard of excellence has earned her respect across the dealership. Her dedication is unwavering, and her determination to support her team is evident in everything she does.
Rising to Challenges with Resilience
For Vicki, challenges are opportunities to grow and make an impact. Her personal journey is a testament to her resilience and determination. After making a decision to prioritise her health, Vicki lost over 100 kilograms—a milestone that reflects her ability to commit fully to her goals. “Once I make a decision, I’m all in. It’s about setting a challenge for myself and seeing it through, no matter how hard it is.”
This same mindset carries over into her work. Whether she’s navigating customer expectations or balancing the needs of her team, Vicki brings a calm and steady presence to every situation. “Customer expectations can be tough, but I remind myself that everyone has bad days. Sometimes, just being kind can change someone’s perspective and make their day a little better.”
Her ability to remain positive, even in the face of challenges, is one of her greatest strengths. Vicki thrives on busy days when there’s a lot happening. “The most challenging days are my favourite because they push me to give my best. At the end of the day, I know I’ve made a difference, and that’s incredibly satisfying.”
Creating a Culture of Support and Inclusivity
Vicki is known for her ability to create an inclusive and supportive environment. From organising small celebrations to ensuring everyone feels valued, she goes above and beyond to make her colleagues feel appreciated. “I try to involve the whole dealership in whatever I do, whether it’s a holiday celebration or just a thoughtful gesture to let someone know they’re appreciated,” she explains.
Her leadership shines during her monthly service department meetings, which she has refined to ensure maximum participation. “I go around the circle twice to give everyone a chance to speak. It’s important to me that people feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, and I make sure to follow up on their concerns quickly. When people see that their input leads to action, it builds trust and engagement.”
Her manager, Adam Finney, sums it up perfectly:
“Vicki has been a breath of fresh air to the service department ever since she started. She goes above and beyond for the staff and business daily. The place would not be the same if not for her and her amazingness.”
Adam’s playful use of “amazingness” is no coincidence—Vicki’s enthusiasm and positivity often shine through in her favourite word, “amazing.” It’s a fitting tribute to her unique impact on the dealership.
A Journey of Growth and Confidence
Vicki’s role at Downtown Toyota has been transformative, helping her discover a newfound confidence and resilience. The dealership’s rebuild, in particular, has been a significant part of her growth journey. “I’ve learned more about myself in the last few years than in my entire life. I used to second-guess myself, but now I trust my abilities. If a problem arises, I know I can handle it.”
Through advanced leadership training and on-the-job experiences, Vicki has developed skills that have empowered her to take on more responsibility and support her team in new ways. Her involvement in Servco’s leadership course, for example, has helped her implement new safety practices and refine her management style. “It’s been amazing to learn from others in the industry and bring those insights back to Downtown Toyota.”
Vicki’s ultimate career goal is to become a manager and oversee her own department (not necessarily service), but she’s focused on making the most of her current role and contributing to the dealership’s success. She says it best: “Every day is an opportunity to grow, and I want to keep learning so I can better support my team and our customers.”
To learn more about Vicki’s professional journey, connect with her on LinkedIn.
Celebrating a True Trailblazer
Vicki Baldwin’s unwavering dedication, her ability to inspire and support her team, and her positive approach to challenges make her a true Trailblazer. Her commitment to excellence and her passion for helping others set her apart, and we’re proud to celebrate her contributions to Downtown Toyota.
Congratulations, Vicki, on this well-deserved recognition. Your leadership and dedication continue to inspire us, and we’re excited to see all that you will achieve in the future!