2025 TDOY Nominee

Jon Weese is one of a select group of 49 dealer nominees from across the country who will be honored at the 108^th annual National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Show in New Orleans, Louisiana, on January 25, 2025.

The TIME Dealer of the Year award is one of the automobile industry’s most prestigious and highly coveted honors. The award recognizes the nation’s most successful auto dealers who also demonstrate a long-standing commitment to community service. Weese was chosen to represent the New Car Dealers of Utah in the national competition — one of only 49 auto dealers nominated for the 56^th annual award from more than 20,000 nationwide.

“My career has allowed me to be a positive influence on those we work with, those we serve, and those we represent,” nominee Weese said. “I’ve learned the importance of cultivating these relationships and look forward to expanding our footprint as we move into the future with great optimism.”

Weese earned a B.S. in accounting in 1999 and an M.B.A. in 2006 from Utah State University in Logan. Then, in 1999 he joined a small auto group in Logan as chief financial officer, his first experience in the retail automotive industry.

“I learned a great deal about the business from a financial perspective,” he said. “I soon jumped in with both feet — exploring all aspects of dealership operations — and fell in love with the leadership of people.”

Weese founded Weese Motors in 2007 and later Heritage Automotive Group in 2013 with his father-in-law and uncle as partners. Today, Heritage Automotive Group has grown to encompass six dealerships, four in Utah (Logan, Tremonton, Vernal, Brigham City) and two in Wyoming (Evanston and Diamondville), representing brands like Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Jeep, and Ram. His three sons, Parker, Jackson, and Tommy, are now part of the team and contributing to the family enterprise.

In each location, Weese has incorporated a training facility called Heritage University, which fosters professional development among employees.

“Our Heritage University focuses on important principles and practical applications that help employees reach their individual objectives, as well as collective goals that will move our company forward,” he said. “All employees spend time with me as I personally communicate our culture and vision.”

Weese added, “Our industry is plagued with a lot of negative influencers, and I’ve refused to become part of that group. I’ve enjoyed leading people to achieve their goals by helping them create successful habits as they discover their own purpose.”

As a member of the New Car Dealers of Utah since 2007, Weese has served the organization in various capacities and is currently on the health insurance board. He also shares his expertise on the motor vehicle advisory board for the Utah Motor Vehicle Enforcement Division.

For community service, Weese focuses on local activities and events within each dealership community, including fairs, rodeos, high school programs, school bands, and more. Some of the organizations and events he supports include Make-A-Wish, United Way of Utah County’s Sub for Santa program, Toys for Tots, Trunk or Treat event, Family Resource Fair, FFA, and many others.

“We are focused on hometown values of family, faith, and community, and we look for unique ways to serve our customers and neighbors,” he said.

Weese was nominated for the TIME Dealer of the Year award by Craig Bickmore, executive director of the New Car Dealers of Utah. Weese and his wife, Andrea, have three children.