Serving Kimberley for over 30 years

Jim Fugina is proud of the service and expertise his staff provide at Chalet GM

Chalet GM's owner, Jim Fugina, and his staff pride themselves on having a low-pressure, friendly environment. — Keith Powell photo

Jim Fugina has been the owner/operator of Chalet GM in Kimberley for over 30 years. The Chevrolet, Buick and GMC dealership went through a complete rebuild inside and out about a year ago and is now even better equipped to serve its customers. Fugina said the staff at Chalet GM strive to be professional in everything they do and pride themselves on having  a low-pressure, friendly environment.

Why did you choose to get into this business?

I grew up in a family car business and liked being around cars. My father operated a dealership in Kimberley (Sullivan Motors) for almost 40 years, the last 20 of which were selling and servicing General Motors vehicles.

What do you like most about your job?

Contact with customers and staff. I really enjoy dealing with customers and I have been lucky to know a lot of people through the business.

What was your very first job and what did you learn from it?

I had a paper route when I was 12. I learned that you have to carefully watch the money coming in and going out. I learned that you need to be outgoing and friendly with people and I also learned that it's fun to deal with the public.

What is your number 1 passion outside work?

My wife and my two girls, who are 10 and 12. I enjoy golfing and other things, but I mostly like spending time with my family.

What advice would you give to someone going into this business?

There are a lot of interesting and rewarding careers in the automotive industry. The pace of change is amazing and it's a lot of fun operating in that changing environment. I would be happy to talk individually with anyone considering an automotive career—just drop in or call me at Chalet GM.