Lucy Benedetti never envisioned a career in the automotive world. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, with a background in Law and Business Administration, her journey into the industry began unexpectedly when her father asked for help in the family dealership. Her path began at Toyota Motors in 1991, and over the years, she co-founded multiple dealerships in Miami, becoming a symbol of resilience and adaptation.
In 2009, Lucy and her husband, Mario Benedetti, relocated to Miami due to Venezuela’s political crisis. There, they rebuilt their careers, founding South Dade Toyota, followed by South Dade Kia of Miami and South Dade Kia of Homestead, establishing a strong presence in South Florida’s automotive market.
Diversity as a Key to Innovation
As COO, Lucy believes that diversity is crucial to success. By fostering an inclusive work environment, she has encouraged innovation, helping her dealerships remain competitive in a demanding market.
Lucy’s leadership also emphasizes customer satisfaction. Her goal is for customers to feel heard and cared for throughout the car-buying experience. This customer-first approach, combined with her strategic vision, has been key to the growth of her business.
Lucy Benedetti Empowering Women in the Industry
Lucy’s “Her Drive, Her Voice” campaign aims to empower women in the automotive sector. “I want women to make informed decisions about their vehicles, without relying on others,” she says. Having observed that many women still defer car-buying decisions to their partners, she is working to change this dynamic, encouraging women to take control of their purchases.
Recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Chief Operating Officers of 2024 by Women We Admire, Lucy has become a trailblazer in an industry traditionally dominated by men.
Community Commitment and Education
Beyond business, Lucy is passionate about education and community welfare. In 2021, she launched the South Dade Education Fund to support local educational programs, aiming to provide resources for personal and professional growth. This initiative has positively impacted not only individuals but also their families and communities.
Lucy’s recent partnership with Florida International University (FIU) will provide new educational opportunities for immigrant students and local residents, reinforcing her belief in education as a key to thriving in a new environment.
Lucy Benedetti exemplifies how entrepreneurial success can go hand in hand with social responsibility, innovation, and empowering others.
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