Dave Sinclair Lincoln: A Legacy of Excellence and Leadership
The "Only in America" Story of Dave Sinclair
Dave Sinclair's journey is a quintessential American success story, marked by resilience, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Born in North St. Louis City, Dave's early years were shaped by humble beginnings. He attended Nativity Grade School and graduated from Beaumont High School in December 1944, just in time to join the Army during World War II. After the war, Dave worked as a hod carrier and joined Laborer's Local 42, a position he held until 1950 when he was accepted into the St. Louis Police Department Academy. As a third-generation police officer, Dave loved his job and would have stayed forever if not for a life-changing incident in the late 1950s.
When his oldest son, Dan, was injured, Dave found himself unable to pay the full doctor bill. His youngest brother, Walt, helped cover the cost, prompting Dave to reconsider his career. With just three days off per month as a policeman, Dave worked tirelessly for six months without a day off to save up enough leave time. He then tried his hand at selling cars at Vincel Pontiac. By the end of three weeks, Dave had earned more than he made in three months as a policeman, leading him to resign from the force and pursue a career in car sales to better provide for his growing family.
From Salesman to Icon
Dave Sinclair's determination and knack for sales quickly propelled him through the ranks. Starting as a rookie salesman at Vincel Pontiac, he soon became a highly valued salesman at Costello-Kunze Ford in Dellwood. His hard work and dedication saw him rise to New Car Manager, General Sales Manager, and eventually Vice-President and General Manager. By 1965, Ford Motor Company was eager to help Dave establish his own dealership. With the support of his dealer, Tom Costello, Dave managed to gather the necessary funds, thanks to Tom's secret savings plan.
In January 1966, Dave Sinclair Ford opened on South Kingshighway Blvd, later moving to South Lindbergh in March 1972. From its first year, it became the largest Ford dealership in St. Louis and quickly the largest dealership of any kind in the area. Dave's commitment to customer satisfaction was encapsulated in the dealership's motto: "If it's not right, we'll make it right!" His open-door policy and direct approach to handling customer issues earned the dealership an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Dave Sr. passed away in September 2009, but his legacy of integrity and exceptional service lives on through his family. The Sinclair family continues to uphold the values he instilled, ensuring that every customer receives the best possible experience.
James Sinclair: Continuing the Tradition
James Sinclair, one of Dave's sons, has worked in the family's dealerships his entire life. He’s proud to have started his way in the back washing cars, working his way up in the stores to higher management positions. He was operating as sales manager when Dave Sinclair Ford was the number one Ford dealer in the nation 3 years in a row. In 1997, he and Dave acquired his first dealership, Dave Sinclair Lincoln. He now owns the only two Lincoln points in St. Louis as well as the top Ford dealership in St. Louis. Under his leadership the dealerships have flourished. James' dedication and deep understanding of the automotive industry have been instrumental in the continued success of Dave Sinclair Lincoln.
Megan Sinclair: A New Era of Leadership
Megan Sinclair, James’ oldest daughter, is now at the helm of Dave Sinclair Lincoln. As one of the few women in the automotive industry, Megan is passionate about motivating more women to join the field. She is committed to continuing to lead in her role with her family’s values of community and family at the forefront. Taking over as General Manager during the pandemic, Megan's leadership has seen sales and service grow year over year, proving her capability and vision for the future.
Experience the Sinclair Difference
Dave Sinclair Lincoln remains a family-owned and operated business, dedicated to providing exceptional service and supporting the St. Louis community. With a legacy of honesty, integrity, and customer satisfaction, the Sinclair family continues to uphold the standards set by Dave Sinclair Sr. We invite you to visit our dealership and experience the difference that comes from a legacy of excellence and a commitment to doing things right.
Because, If it’s not right, we’ll make it right, free!
