Trailblazer Spotlight: Jon Barnes — Calm Leadership, Consistent Results
At Downtown Toyota, our people remain the heartbeat of our success. This month, we’re excited to celebrate Jon Barnes, the newest recipient of our Trailblazer Award. Known for his steady leadership, solution-focused mindset, and commitment to supporting both customers and colleagues, Jon embodies the values that keep Downtown Toyota moving forward. Jon’s journey with Downtown Toyota started several years ago, building on previous experience in the automotive industry.
“Jon is always the one we can count on—especially when things get tough,” says Assistant Service Manager Vicki Baldwin. “Jon steps up without hesitation and brings calm to the chaos. We’re so lucky to have someone like him on our team.”
Before joining the team, he developed his skillset working across different roles, which helped shape his strong technical understanding and customer-first approach. “Each role taught me something different, whether it was problem-solving or simply listening more closely to customers’ needs,” Jon shares. That broad industry experience made his transition to Downtown Toyota a natural fit, and since joining, he’s become a key part of the team’s daily rhythm.
Focused and Driven to Do It Right
Ask anyone who works with Jon, and you’ll hear the same thing: he brings a calm, measured approach to every task. His secret? “Stay organised, stay focused, and take pride in every job you do. If you’re going to do something, you may as well do it properly,” Jon explains.
That mindset keeps him productive even on busy days. Whether handling complex service issues or coordinating with the team, Jon’s attention to detail ensures that customers receive the high-quality care Downtown Toyota prides itself on.
Challenges are Opportunities
Even in a fast-paced environment, Jon sees challenges as chances to grow. One moment that stands out to him involved quickly diagnosing a customer concern that had previously gone unresolved. “Sometimes it’s not the most obvious issue,” he says. “You have to dig a little deeper, think outside the box, and trust your process.”
For Jon, these problem-solving moments are where experience and creativity meet, and often, where customer trust is built.
Teamwork Fuels Success
For Jon, what makes his role rewarding isn’t just solving problems, it’s being part of a team that shares the same commitment. “Everyone’s willing to help, and that makes a huge difference. We all want to see each other succeed, and that culture of support helps us give our best to customers every day.”
He’s quick to credit his colleagues for creating an environment where teamwork and collaboration drive great outcomes for both the business and its customers.
Growth, Advice, and Future Goals
Since joining Downtown Toyota, Jon has grown not just in technical expertise, but in leadership and confidence. His advice to others entering the industry? “Be patient, ask questions, and never stop learning. The industry is always changing, and you have to be willing to adapt.”
Dealer Principal Liam Gaskin saw that firsthand earlier this year. “I saw what Jon did under really tough circumstances over Easter, with much of the team away,” Liam says. “He stayed calm, kept things running smoothly, and quietly supported everyone around him. That kind of steady leadership is exactly what the Trailblazer Award recognises.”
Looking ahead, Jon is focused on continuing to develop his leadership skills and further expanding his technical knowledge, all while delivering outstanding service to Downtown Toyota customers.
A Balance Outside of Work
Away from the dealership, Jon enjoys his downtime outdoors, whether it's camping, exploring, or simply spending quality time with family and friends. It’s that balance of work, learning, and relaxation that keeps him energised and ready to tackle each day.
Jon’s steady presence, commitment to excellence, and passion for problem-solving make him an invaluable part of the Downtown Toyota team — and a very deserving Trailblazer Award recipient.
