Dave Wright named 2026 TIME Dealer of the Year

Dave Wright, president of Nissan Subaru, earns the industry’s top honor for dealership leadership, employee culture, and sustained community impact.

On the Dash:

• Dave Wright was named the 2026 TIME Dealer of the Year from a national field of 47 nominees.
• His dealership is recognized for employee-focused operations and sustained community investment.
• The award underscores the role of culture-driven leadership in long-term dealership success.

Dave Wright, president of Dave Wright Nissan Subaru, was named the 2026 TIME Dealer of the Year during the NADA Show on Feb. 5 in Las Vegas, earning one of the automotive industry’s highest honors for dealer leadership and community service.

Wright was selected from 47 dealer nominees representing state and metro dealer associations nationwide and more than 20,000 franchised auto dealers across the United States. He was nominated by the Iowa Automobile Dealers Association and recognized for his long-standing commitment to philanthropy, employee well-being, and customer care.

The TIME Dealer of the Year award, now in its 57th year, honors dealers who demonstrate business excellence while making meaningful contributions to their communities. Ally has served as the program’s exclusive sponsor for 15 years.

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“At TIME, our commitment to recognizing the exceptional contributions of automotive dealers remains as strong as ever,” said Jessica Sibley, CEO of TIME. “The TIME Dealer of the Year award continues to celebrate those who not only excel in their profession but also make a meaningful impact in their communities.”

Wright entered the automotive business unexpectedly after leaving college and being called to active duty during Operation Desert Shield. After purchasing a stake in a struggling dealership and later acquiring his own store in 2004, he built Dave Wright Nissan Subaru into a people-first, community-driven operation.

Wright’s leadership emphasizes employee support, structured training, and long-term growth. His dealership offers paid time off, including mental health days, wellness reimbursements, paid volunteer hours, and clear career pathways through its Tech120 and Sales120 programs.

Beyond the dealership, Wright donates more than $50,000 annually to local nonprofits and supports organizations including the Boys and Girls Club of the Corridor, Goodwill of the Heartland, Heritage Area Agency on Aging, and the Iowa Giving Crew. His efforts have earned multiple business-of-the-year awards and induction into Hiawatha’s Hall of Fame for leadership and community impact.