Team Chevrolet Valparaiso’s new sales specialists and service manager are motivated to bring the best customer experience possible

For more than 25 years, Team Chevrolet Valparaiso has been committed to creating a service built on honesty, hometown values, and unwavering passion. The dealership strives to be neighbors, supporters, and a trusted automotive partner for the road ahead. 

The dealership is motivated to build a team that exemplifies all of the qualities that make the experience straightforward, stress-free, and enjoyable for the customers. Meet some of the newest hires at Team Chevy and hear their thoughts on the first few months at Valparaiso’s hometown dealership!

Pete Xidias – Service Manager

Pete Xidias is the new service manager at Team Chevrolet Valparaiso. He’s been in the automotive industry since the late 1980s. He previously worked at Toyota of Merrillville as an advisor before he joined Team Chevy in the beginning of October. In just a few short months, Xidias feels close to people from every department.

“I actually came over here for coverage and was presented with an offer,” Xidias said. “After a month and a half, I was promoted to service manager. It’s been great because we all thrive off each other. Everybody here is contributing and helping each other out in a positive setting.”

Team Chevy has given Xidias an opportunity to maximize his potential while working with a dependable team.

“Being able to walk alongside an amazing team is special,” Xidias said. “It makes my job even easier with them by my side. It’s all about how we can give everybody the best customer experience possible. We want to give them that mom-and-pop feel in the dealership world and keep them at ease. That way, they know that they’re making the best decisions for themselves and their vehicle.”

As a service manager, Xidias finds the most fulfillment in being able to orchestrate a group that is willing to learn, listen, and get better from the day before. 

“It’s awesome being able to guide this team,” Xidias said. “Team Chevy is a special group that has a camaraderie that I’ve never seen in any other dealership. Everyone is here to help each other out and walk alongside each other to provide a high-quality experience.”

Charles Baldazo – Sales Specialist

Charles Baldazo has always been a part of the Valparaiso community. He worked his way up to be a service manager and spent some time at the parts counter.

“That’s where I got my customer service and problem solving skills,” Baldazo said. “I was able to listen to people and help them out, which translated pretty well into what I do now with Team Chevy.”

As a long-time resident of the area, Baldazo always knew about Team Chevy. When he got his start with the team as a sales specialist, he was excited to work with a group that has always caught his attention.

“I’ve always known about the culture of Team Chevy and the way they give back,” Baldazo said. “We’ve helped out The Caring Place, Hilltop House, Lakeshore PAWS, and so many other organizations. I’ve always been a Chevy guy myself, so it makes perfect sense for me to be a part of this team. I take pride in being from Valparaiso, and it’s really awesome to be able to sell cars in the community that I live in.”

While Baldazo has only been a part of Team Chevy since November, he has grown to love working as a sales specialist in his first few months.

“There’s no better feeling than helping someone make that big decision,” Baldazo said. “A lot of the time, people come in here and it’s a really happy time for them. They’re getting the car that they always wanted. It’s an awesome feeling when you can see the customers smile.”

Charles Brakebill – Sales Specialist

After being trained in different aspects throughout the industry, Charles Brakebill has found immediate excitement as a sales specialist with Team Chevy. With his father having a degree in psychology and his mother being a stand-up comedian, Brakebill is able to apply his abilities and insights to knock down any barriers in his way.

“It’s helped me to be a real and approachable person,” Brakebill said. “I want to be easy to work with and have clients that trust me enough to not only do business with me, but send referrals and have continued business.”

In a couple of months, Brakebill will have 11 years of experience in this industry. He got started at Team Chevy in January. He had a strong relationship with Dave Brubaker, general manager of Team Chevrolet Valparaiso. Now that he’s been able to work for a bit with the entirety of the team, he’s built even more relationships.

“When we have problems or successes, that support system in your management means everything,” Brakebill said. “That was the biggest thing that took me by surprise in a positive manner. It told me that these guys are number one. There’s a friendly staff here to assist our customers. It’s not only in sales or service, but the fact that we can work cooperatively between departments is a synergy that clients feel, and it makes them want to keep coming back.”

As a sales specialist, Brakebill’s favorite part of working with Team Chevy so far has been the opportunity to reach new heights with a group that cares for each and every customer.

“Being a part of a growing, excited, experienced, and consistent team that is going to do everything possible to make the employees succeed and the customers happy is the biggest thing,” Brakebill said. “We’re here to give a world-class service. I think we’re doing a really good job of it, and it feels even better when you hear people in the community tell us about it.”
For more information on Team Chevrolet Valparaiso, you can visit chevyon30.com.