Dealer Spotlight: Rick Yemm, Yemm Auto Group, Galesburg

Anyone who knows Rick Yemm, Dealer Principal of Yemm Auto Group in Galesburg and former IADA Board Chairman, could easily use the word ‘humble’ to describe him. Quick to tip his hat to his father, daughter, and the team at his multi-brand dealership, he prefers to focus on others, rather than his own story. But, as Rick is the IADA’s selection for the 2026 Time Quality Dealer of the Year, he more than deserves to be highlighted.

Rick has grown the downstate dealership that his father, Dick Yemm, co-founded in 1961. Since becoming the Dealer Principal in 1995, he has worked to build customer relationships, a dedicated staff, and a wide-ranging resume of community-based roles. His goal is simply ‘to be the best right where we are.’

With brands that include Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram, Rick doesn’t rule out future expansion. However, he is focused on maximizing business at his centralized location and ensuring that his daughter, Sara Yemm Witherell, now the dealership’s General Manager, can assume the Dealer Principal position one day.

He glows with pride when speaking of his children. Richard is a successful ophthalmologist practicing in the Quad Cities and Sara has worked in numerous roles in the family dealership.

“Sara has taken so much responsibility off my plate. She has the confidence and ability to lead the team successfully.”

In addition to fostering relationships at his dealership, Rick has served for many years on the IADA board. In 2021, he assumed the role of IADA Chairman.

“Working alongside the IADA staff has been a gratifying experience,” he says. “I have so much respect for what they do to support our dealer network.”

Rick’s community involvement has included his participation on several local boards over the past three decades. He and his wife, Jamie, are strong advocates for the Galesburg Community Foundation. The Yemm family and dealership also support many local events, including educational initiatives, charity support walks, and community fundraisers.

The Yemm team collaborates with local schools to educate and excite students about career opportunities within the automotive industry. Over the years, the dealership has taken part in “Welcome to the Real World,” a fun event hosted by Carl Sandburg College for eighth graders to visit various stations, while engaging with local employers and a panel of young professionals. The team also participates in events at the high school level by attending career fairs and trade shows. Entering a third year of collaboration with the Galesburg Area Vocational Center, Yemm Auto team members host students from its automotive technology program for job shadowing and internships.

Yemm Auto also enjoys hosting onsite events such as the recent 2nd Annual Cars and Coffee gathering which welcomed more than 100 local car enthusiasts. It sponsors the local Corvette Club and helped celebrate its 50th anniversary at this year’s Cars and Coffee event.
Outside of the dealership, Rick enjoys spending time with family and grandchildren, attending University of Illinois athletic events, playing an occasional round of golf, and traveling with Jamie, his wife of 37 years.

At Yemm Auto, the heart of the business is rooted in family values and genuine hospitality toward both employees and guests. Owners Rick and Sara love it when they hear team members and customers say, “there’s just something special about this place.” Rick and his management team remain committed to building a high-performing team, fostering a positive workplace culture, and setting themselves apart in the industry.