Our Team

Kristin Jones

Kristin Jones was born into the car business in Yakima, WA where her father was a Chevrolet/Honda/Mazda dealer and around the dinner table their family would talk about how many cars were sold that day. The car business is definitely in her blood. She’s done everything in the business from working as a cashier, the service drive, sales department, accounting and eventually landing in Finance. Kristin attended the University of San Diego and received a Bachelor of Accountancy Degree which then led her to public accounting after college. After a few years, she headed back to the northwest where she worked for the family business and fell in love with finance immediately. In 2007, she moved to Bellevue, WA where she was the Finance Director for Honda Auto Center for over a decade. When not at work, Kristin and her husband are happily chasing their 2 young boys around town.

Jamie Tax

Jamie Tax began her career in the automobile industry in 2007. She started her career with Zurich Insurance where she held four different roles. She started as a Finance and Insurance Regional Account Specialist, which required her to train and develop F&I managers and hit expected targets. She quickly was promoted to her own designated territory as the Finance and Insurance Executive. She quickly became a top performer in sales and income development. This role required skills in developing new and tenured F&I managers and creating sales tools for all dealership profit centers. After achieving President’s award in that position, she was promoted to the Account Executive position in 2014. During the next 3 years she was responsible for the P&C of her auto dealership clients as well as creating well defined action plans for future dealership goals. Planning and executing impacted the dealerships overall growth and stability, which rewarded her with 2 more presidents awards as well and the number one producer in the company. Her last promotion within Zurich Insurance was National F&I Manager, where she was responsible for the 14 states in the West. She was managing mega auto dealership groups that has specific needs and requirements, as well as growing the divisions book of business. One of her specialties is developing future leaders in business through a very successful mentorship program. She is an advocate for healthy living and enjoys coaching and leading woman through their fitness journeys at a HIIT group fitness gym. When Jamie is not working, she is spending time with her husband Jon and their 3 sons Michael, Aeden, and Cole.

Joe LaPelusa

Joe LaPelusa left the banking industry to join the car business in 2013. He started selling cars at a Toyota dealer in Southern California where he quickly became a constant competitor for top salesman. In 2015, he decided to move to North Carolina to be closer to family. He began working sales and finance at his brother’s independent dealer in the Charlotte area. He worked there for a couple years before moving to a local Infiniti dealer where he took on roles in Sales, Finance and as a Service Advisor/Lane Manager. In 2020, he relocated back to Southern California. From the West to the East Coast, from franchise store to independent dealer, and from finance to fixed ops, Joe has been able to experience and learn in many different roles that contribute to a dealer’s overall success. When he has free time, Joe can be found relaxing with family and friends, or enjoying hiking or camping the outdoors.

Bryce Gibson

Bryce Gibson was born in the car business. Following the footsteps of his grandfather and father, he began his sales career in 1991 in Southern Idaho at a Chrysler Jeep Dodge store. In 1998, he relocated to Oregon and joined a respected growing auto group. After being awarded the “Salesman of the Year” award for several years, he was promoted to Finance Manager. His career with this franchise took him to several stores across the PNW. In 2011, Bryce and his family moved to Washington State where he held F&I and sales management roles. His natural sales ability has given him an easy rapport with customers and fellow employees. In his free time, he enjoys all things outdoors with his wife and two daughters.

Hunter Ray

Account Executive

Hunter Lee Ray, a motivated professional with a solid track record in the automotive industry, hails from the beautiful coastal town of St. Augustine, Florida. His career journey started during his college years in Gainesville, Florida. Initially serving as a sales associate, Hunter swiftly climbed the ladder, securing a position as a used car manager. Keen on embracing fresh challenges, Hunter embarked on a career-altering decision, relocating to Seattle, Washington. This marked the beginning of a new chapter as an F&I manager for AutoNation, where his skills and knowledge flourished, contributing to the company’s success. It was here that he discovered his profound passion for helping individuals succeed in the automotive industry, mentoring and empowering his colleagues to excel in their roles. When Hunter is not working, he enjoys family time with his fiancée and son, indulging in his love for sports, and exploring the many trails the Pacific Northwest has to offer. 

Levonne Padilla

As our Account Development Coordinator and Sales Support, Levonne runs the WFIS office. She handles everything from planning F&I training seminars and group events, to providing sales assistance for the entire Western US team.