By: Alena Wiese

New Leadership Marks Stronger Midwest Presence and Ambitious National Expansion in F&I Excellence

Ascent Dealer Services, one of the fastest-growing companies in automotive finance and insurance (F&I), has appointed James Mercer as Vice President of Sales, signaling a strategic expansion of its leadership team and nationwide footprint. Known for his people-first leadership and proven ability to scale performance-driven teams, Mercer is a respected force in the industry with nearly two decades of success behind him.

With this appointment, Ascent continues its rise as a premier F&I powerhouse. Mercer will play a critical role in building regional partnerships, expanding dealer outreach, and mentoring the next generation of F&I leaders, particularly across the Midwest.

“We are thrilled to welcome James to the Ascent leadership team,” said Adam Marburger, President and CEO of Ascent Dealer Services. “His experience, integrity, and mentorship approach align perfectly with our mission. James Mercer is the absolute most talented professional in our industry.”

Mercer, a Burnsville, Minnesota native, now leads Ascent’s regional sales managers and supports the delivery of forward-thinking, customer-first strategies designed to help dealerships improve performance and compliance while creating sustainable growth.

Building a Legacy of Leadership: Mercer’s Proven Path to the Top

Mercer earned his BA in Economics from Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he developed a foundation in market analysis and organizational strategy. Early in his career at The Metropolitan Group, he was instrumental in designing scalable dealership training modules that emphasized compliance and customer retention. During his formative years at Protective Life, Mercer led several regional initiatives that improved agent performance by more than 25%, earning him internal awards for innovation and operational excellence. He went on to spend nearly 15 years with Protective Life, where he rose through the ranks to become Divisional Sales Director. In this role, he led multi-state teams and built relationships with some of the largest dealership groups in the central U.S., overseeing F&I training, operations, and dealer development.

His leadership style blends accountability, mentorship, and a deep understanding of dealership dynamics. He is well-regarded for his hands-on coaching, ability to interpret market shifts, and commitment to building long-term client success.

“It’s an honor to join Ascent at such a pivotal time,” Mercer said. “The culture Adam has created—centered on excellence, trust, and service—is exactly what our industry needs. I’m excited to help dealerships scale responsibly while putting customers first.”

The Marburger Method: Grit, Growth, and Guiding the Future of F&I

The driving force behind Ascent is Adam Marburger, a dynamic leader who brings both grit and vision to the F&I world. A Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and undefeated MMA fighter, Marburger’s discipline in sports is mirrored by his strategy in business.

He is the author of the newly released The Servant-Leading F&I Manager: Leadership Redefined, which is already drawing national attention. His Training Camp series on CBT News continues to provide inspiration and practical coaching for thousands of automotive professionals.

“Leadership is about service,” Marburger says. “If your team doesn’t believe you care, they won’t go the extra mile.”

Inside Ascent: The Culture That Fuels Scalable Success

Ascent Dealer Services has quickly earned a reputation for delivering results without compromising on values. By focusing on transparent partnerships, tailored F&I solutions, and robust dealer education, the company has helped hundreds of dealership teams enhance revenue while maintaining compliance.

With Mercer on board, the company is doubling down on its Midwest momentum, with plans to expand even further across the U.S. in 2025 and beyond.

“James is a values-driven professional. He doesn’t just sell—he builds, he mentors, and he transforms,” Marburger added. “Together, we’re not just growing; we’re changing the industry.”

A Book with a Mission: Servant Leadership at the Center of F&I Evolution

Marburger’s new book is more than a training manual—it’s a blueprint for how F&I leaders can thrive in a high-integrity, high-performance environment. It offers practical lessons from the field, insights from seasoned professionals, and step-by-step strategies for building a culture of service.

“Packed with real-world lessons and leadership principles, this book is the north star for any dealership team that wants to win the right way,” said Joe St. John, Chief Customer Officer at AutoFi.

The book launched at the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Show 2025 in New Orleans, where Marburger was a featured speaker for the third consecutive year. He is already slated to return as a featured presenter at NADA 2026.

Empowering the Industry: Ascent’s Training, Tools, and Transformational Leadership

Ascent is more than just a company—it’s a movement. What sets Ascent’s training and development apart is its layered, holistic approach. The company doesn’t just offer F&I product knowledge—it delivers real-world coaching, role-specific leadership development, and on-the-ground implementation support tailored to each dealership’s culture and goals. Every team member at Ascent, from trainers to field reps, is empowered to serve not only as educators but as long-term performance partners. Their dealership immersion model ensures strategies are not only taught but also executed with hands-on guidance, resulting in measurable improvements across CSI scores, PVR metrics, and team retention. This deeply integrated approach is rare in the F&I industry and is a key driver behind Ascent’s surge in client satisfaction and market share. Under Marburger’s leadership and with Mercer’s strategic execution, the company aims to redefine the future of F&I by empowering professionals at every level.

Mercer’s appointment signifies a deep commitment to regional growth with national implications. Ascent’s sales, training, and dealer development systems are poised to support thousands of dealerships with the tools, mindset, and mentorship needed to excel.

Summary: Leadership That Builds Trust and Drives Results

James Mercer’s addition to Ascent Dealer Services reflects a values-first, results-driven approach that is reshaping the F&I space. With a shared commitment to integrity, innovation, and mentorship, Mercer and Marburger represent a powerful leadership tandem poised to elevate dealerships nationwide.

For dealerships ready to align performance with purpose, the next step is clear: Partner with Ascent Dealer Services and experience the difference that true servant leadership makes.

Check out Ascent Dealers Services

Visit www.ascentdealerservices.com or follow Adam Marburger on social media to learn how your dealership can thrive through trust, knowledge, likability, love, and a definitive yes—the TKLLT framework that defines GOAT-level leadership.

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• Website: AdamMarburger.com
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• Instagram: @adampmarburger