Gemma Riley’s career in the automotive industry is marked by nine years of remarkable achievements and a commitment to excellence that has elevated Rusty Drewing Toyota.
As General Manager, Riley has driven the dealership to the No. 1 spot in the last four tire promotions in the KC Region—a record-breaking accomplishment. Her dedication to customer service has earned the dealership a 4.9-star Google rating with over 1,600 reviews, showcasing her team’s commitment to satisfaction. Additionally, Gemma has spearheaded the growth of Rusty Drewing Toyota’s online presence, amassing over 16,000 followers on social media, and has been recognized as a TLE Top 5 Dealer in the KC Region for three consecutive years. Her accomplishments also include winning the President’s Award in both 2022 and 2023, as well as the Customer First Advisory Board Award in 2023.
Rilye’s journey in automotive retail began after completing her MBA, where a connection with Kevin Riley introduced her to the industry. Her start in the finance office laid a strong foundation for her career, but her resilience and leadership were put to the test when a tornado devastated the dealership. As she stepped into the role of General Manager, she led her team through the rebuilding process, transforming the dealership and establishing a culture of perseverance. This experience not only solidified her leadership abilities but also inspired her vision for a resilient, growth-oriented team culture that stands out in a highly competitive, male-dominated field.
Through personal and professional challenges, Riley has continued to lead by example, balancing her role as a mother to three young children and her duties as General Manager.
Her proudest career moment came during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic when she brought her youngest child to work, showing her team that adaptability is key to overcoming adversity.
Today, her future goals remain centered around sustaining a positive work environment, focusing on customer satisfaction, and implementing innovative strategies to propel Rusty Drewing Toyota’s success. At just 36 years old, Gemma Riley is setting an impressive standard for women in automotive leadership with no signs of slowing down.
