Jan 11
31
Annette Smith- The West Herr Connector
President’s Assistant Always Looking Out For West Herr
Author Malcolm Gladwell coined the term “connector” to describe a person who knows people across numerous social, cultural and professional, circles while making a habit of introducing people from different circles.
Annette Smith is West Herr’s connector.
I experienced this first hand when I interviewed her for this profile, and within minutes she recommended me a future profile subject; Billy Parker, a West Herr technician. 
“He’s an interesting guy and he’s even a photographer in his spare time,” Annette told me. In a company of over 1100 employees, the fact she knew more about him than just the basics speaks volumes.
Annette Smith’s official title is the assistant to West Herr President Scott Bieler. That position transforms into many roles including Public Relations contact and Customer Service representative. Part of Annette’s job is to respond to customer emails and inquiries.
“I have the best job in the world, I get the chance to make things better when a customer comes to us,” she said.
Annette isn’t just the connector within West Herr, she’s our connector to the community as well. She handles West Herr’s charity donations, which totaled 690 last year.
“My goal is to always find a way to say ‘yes’,” Annette said. She almost always does.
Annette’s dedication to West Herr stems from her belief in the company, its leaders and its vision. She’s particularly amazed at how Scott Bieler dedicates his time to so many people despite his multitude of responsibilities. He even plays a mentoring role to a few local high school students who have shown an interest in the car business.
“Scott and the owners have everyone’s best interest at heart,” Annette says. What she doesn’t say is that she does as well. Despite her mastery of her job, Annette is currently taking night classes to become a certified administrative professional. It’s clear she’s truly always looking out for West Herr.
That dedication to her job is matched only by her enthusiasm for her hobbies. When the conversation turns to food and wine, she becomes noticeably giddy.
“I love fine dining. I love talking about food, and I love the food channel. Wine too,” Annette said. She’s too humble to notice or admit it, but she speaks with the confidence of a fine dining connoisseur.
Annette also has two daughters in college and spends time with her mother and her husband Chuck. When asked about her future plans, she provides an answer that most people could only hope for.
“I hope to continue on this path, I have a good life,” she says. “I hope to work at West Herr until I am no longer able to work.”
Given her contributions to West Herr, it’s safe to say the feeling is mutual.