Cox Automotive has awarded Linda Silverstein, general manager of remarketing and rental operations for Ford Motor Co., as this year’s Barbara Cox Automotive Woman of the Year.

The honor is awarded to women who demonstrate business leadership and community advocacy, as well as a commitment to advancing the automotive industry, according to Cox Automotive.

Cox Automotive President Sandy Schwartz presented the 12th annual award during the Northwood University Dealer Education Award annual breakfast on Jan. 28 at the National Automobile Dealers Association Convention and Expo.

“Linda is exactly the type of professional the automotive industry needs more of,” said Schwartz. “By sharing her experiences through mentoring, she is helping develop future leaders. This award is named after the late Barbara Cox, one of our owners and the mother of Jim Kennedy, our chairman. Linda shares many of the same qualities and all of the values that we admire in Mrs. Cox. Linda is open, honest and direct as well as knowledgeable and sincere, all qualities that you need to succeed in this business."

Silverstein has been responsible for Ford Motor Co. vehicle remarketing since 2002. She has also been responsible rental operations since 2007. Silverstein joined the Ford Motor Co. in 1982 as an analyst in Ford Division's Detroit District Sales Office. Additionally, Linda was inducted into the National Auto Auction Association Hall of Fame in 2009, and was also recognized as 2010 Consignor of the Year and was honored as a Warren Young Fellow.

“Cox Automotive’s genuine commitment to supporting woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry – both inside the company and in the industry at large – is very powerful.” said Silverstein. “I am honored to be the recipient of The Barbara Cox Automotive Women of the Year award. I am thankful for all of my mentors along the way that gave me the advice and support to succeed in this great industry.”