Young Professionals Helping Young Professionals: Spotlight on Marsha McLaughlin
For Marsha McLaughlin, the importance of a mentor can’t be overstated. Having someone guiding a young professional though the ins and outs of the aftermarket industry can make a huge difference. Now, with her involvement in the Young Professionals in the Aftermarket (YPA) Committee, she’s giving back to the next generation.
Marsha McLaughlin
Marketing Manager, Castrol & SuperClean
Company: Wakefield Canada Inc.
Years in the Automotive Aftermarket Industry: 15+
What’s your favourite part of your job?
Since I work for an entrepreneurial company, it means I can make my mark and feel part of a family. However, I am also backed by global brands so I get the chance to be part of industry marketing trends and best practices from all over that world that I can bring to my company and my team so I’m always learning and growing.
Does being a YPA Committee member also offer you the chance to learn and grow?
Definitely. I’ve been a member for five years and that’s one of the most beneficial aspects. I get to network with like-minded, young professionals in the industry. We share our progressive thinking and our vision for how the industry can evolve. We also get the chance to share our experience with younger students and let them know about all the opportunities that exist in the automotive aftermarket industry that they may not have considered.
What advice would you give to those young students or to anyone who is thinking of transitioning into the automotive aftermarket industry?
My best advice would be to find a mentor. I’ve had the privilege of having a series of mentors who were all experts in their fields, in every aspect of our business. It’s given me an overall understanding of Wakefield’s business and how our company can succeed within a competitive industry. I’d also encourage anyone starting out to take advantage of committees like YPA. There are so many great opportunities that exist within the automotive aftermarket but you have to be willing to make new connections and spend time networking.
About Wakefield Canada Inc.
Founded in 2005, Wakefield provides sales, marketing and distribution solutions to retailers, warehouse distributors, automotive and heavy duty jobbers, franchised and independent installers, quick lubes, fleet companies, new car dealers and original equipment manufacturers. Wakefield’s brand portfolio includes Castrol premium lubricants, SuperClean cleaner degreasers and its own line of aftermarket products.
Find out more about careers at Wakefield Canada Inc.
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About the Young Professionals in the Aftermarket
Young Professionals in the Aftermarket (YPA) is an Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA Canada) committee comprising of young executives, of 45 years or younger, in the Canadian auto care sector. The Committee’s mandate is to ensure the future growth and prosperity of the aftermarket industry.
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