Meet Our Staff

With 28 years of experience in the automotive industry, Matt Renko brings a deep knowledge base and a genuine passion for helping customers to his role as New Car Sales Manager at Bob Maxey Ford of Howell. His career began at Brighton Ford, where he spent 20 years as a Salesman and Lease Manager, followed by 3 years at Feldman Chevrolet of Novi. Matt’s journey to Bob Maxey Ford started in a unique way—after meeting owner Mike Maxey during a Red Wings Alumni hockey game, an opportunity opened up that led him to join the team as a Finance Manager on September 14, 2020, and continue growing within the dealership.

Matt enjoys working with all types of customers, but he has a special appreciation for long-term, loyal relationships—something he’s built throughout his nearly three decades in the business. In fact, he’s proud to have customers who have been purchasing vehicles from him for the entire span of his career. When it comes to vehicles, Matt has a particular passion for the Ford F-150, a favorite among many of his clients.

What Matt values most is that unforgettable moment when a customer sits in their new vehicle and smiles, knowing they made the right choice. Creating that experience and building trust is at the heart of everything he does.

His advice to buyers is honest and practical: take the time to test drive different options, set a realistic budget, and focus on what truly fits your needs. For first-time buyers especially, Matt emphasizes the importance of not overextending financially and choosing a vehicle that delivers both value and reliability. For returning buyers, it’s all about balancing wants with real-world needs.

Matt truly enjoys the small-town feel of Howell and Livingston County, as well as the close connections it creates. After so many years in the industry, he often runs into past customers around town—and hearing how much they still enjoy their vehicles is something that always makes his day.

Outside of work, Matt has a fun and adventurous side—he’s a drummer in a rock band, an avid hunter, and is even planning an African safari hunt in the near future, adding to his love for the outdoors and new experiences.

Hi, I'm Matt, Sales Manager at Bob Maxey Ford. Before beginning my 15-year career in the automotive industry, I spent 12 years as a high school social studies teacher in Tennessee. Both careers have centered on helping people, building trust, and providing guidance, which is why the transition felt so natural.

I believe buying a vehicle should be an exciting and enjoyable experience. My goal is to ensure every customer feels informed, respected, and confident throughout the process. Whether you're looking for a new Ford, a quality pre-owned vehicle, or simply have questions about your options, I'm here to help.

When I'm not at the dealership, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Alisyn, our family, and our grandchildren. I also enjoy hunting and spending time outdoors. I look forward to earning your trust and helping you with your automotive needs for years to come.

With an incredible 45 years in the automotive industry, Jay Clayton is a cornerstone of the Bob Maxey Ford of Howell team. He began his journey at just 16 years old, developing a lifelong passion for helping people and building relationships. A lifelong Howell resident, Jay joined Bob Maxey Ford because of his deep roots in the area and his strong connection to the people and businesses throughout Livingston County—it was simply the perfect fit.

In addition to his role as Sales Manager, Jay serves as the dealership’s Community Liaison, where he helps organize local events and build meaningful partnerships with area businesses. His focus on community involvement reflects his belief that a dealership should be more than just a place to buy a vehicle—it should be an active and positive part of the community.

Jay enjoys working with all types of customers, especially when it comes to trucks and helping people find exactly what they need. He takes great pride in making customers happy during what is often a major life purchase, ensuring they feel confident and excited about their decision.

What Jay values most is creating a comfortable and enjoyable buying experience. He understands that many people don’t naturally enjoy the car-buying process, so he works hard to make it fun, relaxed, and stress-free.

His advice to buyers is rooted in experience: make sure the vehicle fits your needs and your budget. Whether it’s a first-time purchase or a replacement, Jay encourages customers to be thoughtful and intentional, choosing a vehicle that truly supports their lifestyle.

Jay has a deep appreciation for Livingston County, where he has lived since 1968. He’s witnessed the area’s growth over the decades and continues to value the strong sense of community, local businesses, and lasting relationships that make Howell such a special place.

A fun part of Jay’s story is his family’s long-standing connection to the area—they owned Clayton Cadillac Olds and Jeep in Howell, which originally brought his family to the community in the 1960s. He even remembers attending the old cattle auctions that once took place right across the street, offering a unique perspective on how much the area has grown.

With decades of experience, deep community ties, and a passion for people, Jay Clayton continues to make a lasting impact at Bob Maxey Ford and throughout Livingston County.

With 20 years of experience in the automotive industry, Will Andrews brings knowledge, passion, and a customer-first mindset to every interaction. His career began with 9 years in Clayton, Georgia, before joining Bob Maxey Ford of Howell, where he has proudly served for over 11 years. Will was drawn to the dealership by the opportunity to work for a family-owned business and represent a brand he truly believes in.

Will enjoys working with all types of customers and vehicles, with a special focus on helping people understand the latest in-vehicle technology and assisting truck customers in choosing the right vehicle for their specific needs. His goal is to make the buying process clear, comfortable, and tailored to each individual. What Will loves most about his job is seeing that moment of excitement when a customer connects with their perfect vehicle—whether it’s the color they’ve been dreaming of or the features that will enhance their daily drive. For him, success means ensuring every customer drives away loving their new vehicle. When offering advice, Will encourages buyers to ask questions, explore every option, and take test drives to be confident in their choice. He believes finding a vehicle you truly love is key to long-term satisfaction and helps prevent second guessing down the road.

Will has built strong relationships throughout the community and says one of his favorite parts about working in Livingston County is the people. Over the years, he has met countless wonderful individuals and enjoys being part of such a welcoming and supportive area.

Outside of the dealership, Will is an avid backpacker and hiker, with a deep appreciation for the outdoors and nature—something his customers often enjoy connecting with him about.

With 10 years of experience in the automotive industry, Aaron Beach brings a steady, straightforward approach to helping customers at Bob Maxey Ford of Howell. He chose to join the dealership for a simple but meaningful reason—the opportunity to work close to home and serve the local community.

Aaron enjoys working with all types of customers and vehicles, taking pride in offering a flexible and accommodating experience no matter the situation. His focus is on making sure each customer feels comfortable and well taken care of throughout the entire process.

What Aaron values most is knowing that the job was done right and the customer is satisfied. Delivering a smooth, successful experience from start to finish is what motivates him every day.

His advice to buyers is refreshingly simple: have fun with the process. Buying a vehicle is an exciting milestone, and Aaron encourages customers to enjoy the journey and make the most of it.

Aaron appreciates the Howell and Livingston County community most for the people—the friendly, genuine connections that make working locally so rewarding.

Outside of work, Aaron describes himself as a homebody, someone who enjoys keeping things low-key and relaxed in his personal time—a trait many customers can relate to and appreciate.

With 33 years of experience in the automotive industry, Robert Ritchie brings a wealth of knowledge, professionalism, and a customer-first approach to Bob Maxey Ford of Howell. Robert joined the dealership after being referred by another respected manager in the automotive industry, and he has continued to build a reputation for providing honest guidance and exceptional customer service.

Robert enjoys working with all types of customers, regardless of what vehicle they may be shopping for. Whether someone is searching for a truck, SUV, family vehicle, or their next daily driver, his favorite part of the process is putting a smile on their face and helping them feel confident in their decision.

As a self-described old-school salesperson, Robert values taking the time to walk the lot with customers, learn about their needs, and personally help them discover the right vehicle. He believes that building relationships and providing a hands-on experience are essential parts of helping customers find a vehicle they’ll love for years to come.

His advice to buyers is simple and practical: choose a vehicle that fits both your lifestyle and your monthly budget. By focusing on what works best for their everyday needs and financial goals, customers can feel comfortable and confident with their purchase.

Robert appreciates everything Howell and Livingston County have to offer. He describes it as the kind of community anyone would be lucky to be part of, with friendly people, a caring atmosphere, and the charm of a small town. He especially enjoys the area's many outdoor activities and the fact that there is always something happening in the community, making it a wonderful place to raise a family or enjoy retirement.

When he's away from the dealership, Robert is an avid outdoorsman who loves spending time outside. He enjoys motorcycles, horseback riding, and taking in the beauty of Michigan's outdoors, passions that reflect his adventurous spirit and appreciation for an active lifestyle.

Whether you're purchasing your first vehicle or upgrading to something new, Robert is committed to making the experience enjoyable, straightforward, and tailored to your needs.

With 5 years of experience in the automotive industry, Brennan Merrill brings energy, focus, and a problem-solving mindset to his role at Bob Maxey Ford of Howell. He joined the team to be part of a clean, positive environment that allows him to perform at his best and deliver a high level of service to every customer.

Brennan has a strong passion for trucks—especially the Ford Raptor—and enjoys working with customers who share that same excitement. Helping someone get behind the wheel of a truck they’ve been dreaming about is one of his favorite parts of the job.

What Brennan finds most rewarding is being the one who can identify a customer’s needs and solve the challenge, making the process smooth and successful. He takes pride in ensuring every customer leaves feeling confident they made the right decision.

His advice to buyers is clear and straightforward: be honest about your needs, budget, and goals—and work with someone who truly listens. Brennan believes open communication is the key to getting the best possible outcome and avoiding unnecessary frustration.

Brennan enjoys working in Howell for one simple reason—the people. Having been raised and still living in Howell, he values the connections he builds with customers and the sense of community that makes his work even more meaningful.

With his local roots, passion for trucks, and commitment to helping customers find the right fit, Brennan brings an authentic and driven approach to every interaction.

With 7 years of experience in the automotive industry, all of which have been spent serving customers in Livingston County, CJ Kiesgen brings a strong local connection and a relationship-driven approach to his role at Bob Maxey Ford of Howell. Having grown up in the area, CJ understands the community and takes pride in helping his neighbors find the right vehicle.

CJ enjoys working with a wide range of customers, with a particular focus on new car buyers. He values the opportunity to connect with people during an exciting time in their lives and help them navigate their options with confidence.

What CJ finds most rewarding is building lasting relationships. For him, it’s not just about the sale—it’s about creating a connection that continues well beyond the purchase and earning his customers’ trust for years to come.

His advice to buyers is refreshingly simple: “Buy what you want—life is too short.” CJ encourages customers to choose a vehicle they truly enjoy and feel excited about every time they get behind the wheel.

CJ loves being part of the Howell and Livingston County community, where friendly faces are everywhere and connections run deep. He often finds that customers share mutual acquaintances, which helps make every interaction feel more personal and familiar.

Outside of work, CJ is proud to call Livingston County home—having grown up in the area, he brings a genuine local perspective that customers appreciate when working with him.

Stacey has a passion for trucks and fast cars, and she loves connecting with customers who share that same excitement. As an Internet Manager, she especially enjoys the initial conversation—learning what each customer is looking for and helping guide them in the right direction from the very beginning.

What Stacey finds most rewarding is helping customers take that first step in the buying process and watching their confidence grow. She understands that purchasing a vehicle can feel like a big commitment, and she reassures customers that it often turns into a great sense of accomplishment and pride once they drive off in a vehicle they chose themselves.

Her advice to buyers is simple and encouraging: while the process may feel overwhelming at first, trust the journey and take pride in your decision. She’s there to help make the experience as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Living and working in Howell is something Stacey truly appreciates. She enjoys the convenience, close-knit community, and everything the area has to offer, making it easy to balance work and everyday life. Outside of work, Stacey is a huge animal lover and a proud dog and bunny mom—something that often brings a personal and relatable touch to her conversations with customers.

With over 41 years in the automotive industry, Steve Azar brings an exceptional depth of experience and leadership to the Bob Maxey Ford of Howell team. His career spans nearly every aspect of the business—from New and Used Car Sales (16 years) to Sales Manager (10 years) and General Manager (6 years) roles. Steve has also spent 8 years as a Dealer Principal, operating Pro-Am Power Sports dealerships in Traverse City and Cadillac, giving him a well-rounded perspective that benefits every customer he works with.

Steve enjoys working with all types of customers and vehicles, and his approach is centered on understanding each person’s unique needs. Whether you're shopping for your first vehicle, upgrading, or exploring something new, he prides himself on troubleshooting challenges, finding the right fit, and building lasting relationships. For Steve, the most rewarding part of his job is simple: seeing customers happy and confident in their decision.

When it comes to advice, Steve encourages buyers to look beyond emotion and carefully consider all factors involved in their purchase. He believes strongly in transparency and building an ongoing relationship with your dealership, ensuring a better experience both now and in the future.

A longtime professional who truly values people, Steve loves everything about the Howell and Livingston County community and is proud to serve local drivers with honesty, knowledge, and dedication.

With 6 years of experience in the automotive industry, Madeline Brooks brings a natural passion for helping customers find the right vehicle. Growing up in an automotive family, with both of her parents working in the industry, she developed an early appreciation for the business that ultimately inspired her to follow in their footsteps.

Madeline enjoys working with first-time buyers and families, helping guide them through one of the most important purchasing decisions they’ll make. She understands the importance of creating a comfortable and supportive experience, especially for those new to the process.

What Madeline loves most about her role is the moment when a customer takes delivery of their vehicle and their excitement shines through. Seeing her customers feel happy, confident, and proud of their purchase is what makes her job so rewarding.

Her advice to buyers is simple and practical: choose a vehicle that fits your budget and will serve you well for years to come. She believes a thoughtful decision today leads to long-term satisfaction down the road.

Madeline has a strong connection to the Howell community. As a graduate of Cleary University, she spent her college years enjoying everything the area has to offer. From the Melon Festival and the downtown summer farmers market to the Balloon Festival, she appreciates the local events that make Howell feel like home.

Outside of work, Madeline is an avid golfer. She has been playing since she was 5 years old and even played competitively for Cleary University, adding a fun and competitive edge to her personality that customers often enjoy connecting with.