Life at OPENLANE: Q&A with Dean Britt, Sr Mgr, Process Improvement at OPENLANE

Dean Britt, Sr Process Improvement Manager at AFC and co-lead of LGBTQ+ at OPENLANE, talks to us about all things PRIDE, his favorite parts about OPENLANE and more.

What is your favorite part about PRIDE month?

Embracing diversity and sharing that passion with everyone. For me personally, Pride month goes beyond the LGBTQ+ community; it’s an opportunity to welcome individuals from all walks of life. As the community grows more inclusive, it is important that everyone is included so we are able to move forward together. 

What does being co-lead of LGBTQ+ at OPENLANE mean to you?

The work we do ensures everyone has a safe space and doesn’t feel judged — this is crucial for all employee resource groups at any company. The most important thing is giving someone a tool to help them be their authentic self. So helping them use that tool, is what means the most to me. 

What has your journey at OPENLANE looked like?

When I first joined OPENLANE in 2020, I initially worked in HR and people operations on the talent, growth and development team. However, with my extensive prior experience in the automotive industry, a while ago, I transitioned into a process improvement role within the company centralizing titles for AFC. 

What is something you are most proud of during your time at OPENLANE and AFC?

During my first year, we were able to develop and offer new sources of training to OPENLANE employees. By the end, we increased the number of available e-learning training, more than six fold. Ultimately, I helped develop and implement a leadership program for new leaders at OPENLANE. 

Which one of your skills assisted you the most with your success at OPENLANE?

Looking at projects with a bird’s eye view and anticipating all the different ways things can go. It’s important to be able to identify the necessary steps to achieve success and understand that there may be multiple pathways to get to the other side. 

What do you like the most about working at OPENLANE?

Everyone is willing to help each other. It’s a very friendly and collaborative atmosphere at all times.