Walker Spotlight: Van Harris
Store Sales Representative Van Harris has been a fixture in the Hillsborough, Chapel Hill and Pittsboro areas for Walker Auto & Truck [Walker] for more than 10 years and with NAPA for an impressive 20…but that’s just the latest chapter in his storied career. Get to know a little more about one of Walker’s longest-term salespeople!
How long have you worked for Walker?
Since 2008. Since the Walker’s took over the Ashworth Hillsborough store - I had been there since 2002. Previous to that I had worked for IBM for 30 years, with a three-year stint in Nice, France. IBM taught me how to be good at business. There was no customer downtime, you always took care of them and made sure they had the parts they needed.
Best memory working with Walker or NAPA?
Seeing the Walker family grow up has been pretty neat. I’ve always enjoyed whenever we do family company days and getting to go to NAPA Expo, True Blue and the fun trips we’ve been on. It was also neat helping put together the Pittsboro store build and the Hillsborough store property.
What’s Your Favorite Car?
’62 Pontiac
And First Car?
’55 Ford. I paid $175 for it. It was baby blue with a six cylinder engine. Within 8 months it was a V8 and red.
Best Sales Call You’ve Ever Made?
Getting the filter business from Steve Talbert. It took me asking for six straight years for it, and the one year I didn’t ask, that’s when he made the switch.
What drives you every day to get up and go to work?
At my age it’s something to do that I really enjoy. The customers I see and the people I work with really keep me going.
What does customer service mean to you?
It means getting what the customer needs - on time and at the right price! You’d be surprised at how many customers expect me to spend their money like it’s mine – which means not waste their money. You have to get people to trust you. You gotta make things happen when you say you’re going to do it.
What got you into the parts business?
Well after IBM, I worked for a grading company but then the economy crashed in the early 2000s so I went to the Hillsborough NAPA store and started as a driver. In Junior High, I worked at the Volkswagen dealership and used to ride my bike to get parts at the NAPA store. So I’ve always been around it.
Favorite thing to do outside of work?
I like to be outside, even if it’s cold out there, I’m outside. I also love spending time with my family and watching my granddaughters play basketball.
How long do you plan on staying?
Forever…or at least as long as I’m physically able!
Anything else you’d like to add?
I have been very successful in the parts business at Walker but would not have been without the support of the store employees – drivers, counter team and manager included! The support of our purchasing people and tech, support from NAPA world and my outside sources. We are only as good as the people we work with – good customers help too! Thanks to everyone!
