Howard Wilner

President of Automax Preowned and Mina Property Group

Howard Wilner’s leadership is persistent and visionary. He has extensive experience in the automotive industry, including business development and dealership operations. He has also pursued property investment and established himself as an entrepreneur and mentor.

Much of his career was spent building Automax Preowned. Through the company, he refined his ability to create businesses that meet customer needs while improving management and service practices.

A Path Shaped by Education and Dedication

Howard’s early education laid the foundation for his lifelong pursuit of learning. He graduated from Framingham North High School in 1984 and attended Massachusetts Bay Community College. He later completed courses at Framingham State College and Boston College.

These academic experiences strengthened his understanding of business administration and management, providing him with practical skills for his work in the automotive industry.

Outside of academics, he focused on personal and professional growth. He balanced his entrepreneurial ambitions with dedication to family life. Now married with three children, he credits his education and negotiation skills as central to his success.

From Dealer to Executive Leader

In 1990, Howard launched Automax Preowned. The dealership quickly earned a reputation for quality and reliability.

Automax expanded rapidly, growing to seven locations before consolidating into two major flagship outlets. He attributes this growth to a carefully crafted strategy and a customer-first approach.

In 2000, he founded Mina Property Group, focusing on commercial property acquisitions, which diversified his business interests.

He later led New England AutoMax, Inc., overseeing all departmental operations and achieving 13% sales growth by 2010. As president of the company’s Marlboro, Massachusetts service center, he managed factory-direct services for all vehicle makes and models.

His time as president of Marlboro Auto Exchange demonstrated his ability to guide companies in competitive markets. As one of New England’s largest independent dealers, the company reflects its skill in building and sustaining successful businesses.

Leadership Beyond the Showroom

Howard’s work extends beyond sales and operations. He emphasizes leadership development, especially for new managers. He advises against dominating conversations to prove oneself, stressing that effective leadership requires listening and understanding team dynamics.

He encourages managers to inspire their teams and invest in relationships. Credibility, he believes, comes from consistent actions and authenticity.

His guidance comes from real-world experience. He has led teams through dynamic environments and competitive challenges, helping leaders build resilience and maintain focus. His influence extends beyond his companies, providing practical guidance to emerging leaders.

Community and Professional Engagement

Howard is active in professional and community organizations, including Rotary International, the Boston College Club, the Charter Oak Golf Club, NHREIA, and the New England Society. These memberships reflect his commitment to networking, community service, and staying connected to industry and civic life.

Automax Preowned: A Customer-First Dealership

Automax Preowned represents Howard’s vision of making high-quality vehicles accessible to customers. The dealership is a trusted source for pre-owned cars, offering a balance of quality and affordability.

It offers an inventory of late-model foreign and domestic vehicles, often priced below industry benchmarks. Customers receive full support throughout the selection process, including financing tailored to their needs and budgets.

Even buyers with less-than-perfect credit can access loans through Automax’s finance department. Howard ensures the dealership provides guidance and reliable service, building trust and long-term customer loyalty.

A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation

Howard’s career reflects a balance of entrepreneurial drive and practical leadership. From his education to the creation of Automax Preowned and Mina Property Group, he has shown steady growth and adaptability. His focus on developing leadership skills demonstrates a belief that success comes from vision and credibility.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Howard Wilner’s career highlights the value of combining experience with innovation. His story shows how dedication and thoughtful leadership can shape successful businesses and leave a lasting impact on both the industry and the community.