On the Rise: Ben Chambers

Ben Chambers

Regional sales director for National Tire Wholesale | TBC Corp. | Dickinson, Texas | Age: 38

What was your first job in the industry?

My first job in this industry was as a sales area manager for tires and accessories for an automotive engine remanufacturing company in Houston, Texas. I later joined NTW as a territory sales representative.

What attracted you to the industry?

I was drawn to the fast-paced nature of the sales environment in this industry and the opportunity to build strong relationships with customers and help them grow their businesses.

What is the biggest challenge you've faced in your career?

One of the biggest challenges I faced in my career was during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Being based in Texas and serving customers in the area, the storm hit close to home, both personally and professionally. While a challenging time, I worked closely with my team to maintain sales operations and serve customers while also attending to familial needs following the disaster.

Who has had the biggest influence on your career?

My father, Virgil Chambers, has without a doubt had the biggest influence on my career. I would tag along with him on sales calls as early as grade school and he taught me the art of following up, hard work, tenacity and respect. He has continued to be an inspiration to me throughout my career, coaching me through challenging times and inspiring me to be better at all times.

What is your biggest accomplishment in the industry?

One of my proudest accomplishments has been earning the trust and respect of my sales team. At NTW, we’re committed to exceeding our customers’ expectations and providing them with the products they need, when they need them, to support their long-term growth and the needs of their customers. 

Tell us about your current job and responsibilities. How do you spend your workday?

I support customers in getting the tires they need, when they need them.

Tell us about your family.

My wife and I have four young children, including twins. They are my true inspiration to be the best man I can be every day.

What is the most essential professional skill for someone in your job?

Humility. You cannot connect with someone without a level of humility, which creates empathy and open-mindedness. Which is crucial for understanding a customer’s needs and addressing them in a fashion that truly brings value to their business.

If you could start a new career tomorrow, what would you do?

I’ve always loved horticulture, so I would probably open up my own landscape supply/greenhouse company.

Do you live by inbox zero, or inbox disaster?

Inbox zero!

In the next 10 years, what will be the biggest change in the tire industry?

With the development of AI and other technological advancements, manufacturing will likely become an easier process and will open the market to new brands and product lines. It will also create an opportunity to go to market with products with very precise consumer targeting.

What moment in life would you like to live over again?

I’d love to go back and enjoy Skye in Scotland again — to breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the peace of the landscape.

What hobby or activity helps you unwind?

When I am not enjoying time with my kids, I play adult softball on Sundays with a tight group of friends.

If it was your job to persuade new people to join the tire industry, what would be your best selling point?

This is an industry with so many opportunities. Tires are the only parts of the vehicle that come in direct contact with the road, and new tires can make a big difference in the quality of a driver’s experience as well as their passengers’ safety. Being in this industry, you can be part of that difference — in creating a solution for people and impacting their lives for the better.

What's one thing you would change about yourself?

I’d love to be able to multi-task more efficiently, but have really leaned into being precise and thorough, knowing my limitations.

Pick a celebrity and explain why you think he/she would be a great tire dealer.

Vin Diesel! Who wouldn’t trust Vin with his suggestions on safety and performance? And of course, he’s got the last name to go with it!