Dealer Owned GAP Program

Tim Byrd founded DealerRE in 1994 and has spent decades helping auto dealers build stronger, more profitable F&I programs through dealer-owned reinsurance. His experience spans program structure, profitability strategy, and long-term dealer support, giving clients practical guidance rooted in real industry knowledge. Tim's leadership helped establish DealerRE as a trusted resource for dealerships seeking to retain underwriting profits instead of relying on third-party product providers. As the company's founder, he has remained focused on helping dealers improve efficiency, strengthen customer offerings, and create sustainable financial advantages through well-managed reinsurance programs.

Taylor Byrd serves as President of DealerRE and helps dealerships understand the strategic value of opening and operating their own reinsurance company. A frequent speaker at national and state independent dealer events, he brings a strong educational approach to dealer partnerships and is known for making complex reinsurance concepts practical and actionable. Taylor has also appeared on industry podcasts to discuss dealer-owned reinsurance opportunities and how dealers can improve profitability through smarter F&I structures. His leadership combines industry insight, communication, and a commitment to helping clients build programs that support both operational performance and long-term growth.

Parker Byrd brings dealership-side experience to his role as Vice President of DealerRE, having previously worked as both an F&I Manager and Salesman at local dealerships. That firsthand background helps him relate directly to dealer clients and understand the day-to-day realities of presenting products, managing profitability, and improving customer experience. Since joining DealerRE, Parker has helped support reinsurance programs with a practical perspective shaped by real showroom and finance office experience. His ability to connect operational dealership needs with long-term reinsurance strategy makes him a valuable resource for clients looking to strengthen ancillary product performance and retain more F&I income.

Heather Spruill joined DealerRE after earning her MBA and has become a key part of the company's client support and operational administration. As Office Manager and Controller, she helps ensure dealers receive responsive communication, organized program support, and dependable back-office coordination. Her commitment to service is reflected in the consistency and professionalism clients experience throughout their relationship with DealerRE. Heather's administrative leadership supports the company's full-service model, helping dealerships stay focused on growth while DealerRE assists with the details that keep reinsurance programs running smoothly and efficiently.

Kristi Cashman serves as VP of Business Development and helps dealerships identify opportunities to improve efficiency, productivity, and profit potential through smarter reinsurance strategies. With a background in strategic management and marketing, she brings a growth-focused perspective to dealer relationships and program development. Kristi works closely with clients to align business goals with practical F&I solutions that support stronger performance over time. Her ability to combine strategic thinking with client-centered communication makes her an important part of DealerRE's mission to help dealers build more valuable, better-managed reinsurance programs.

Brenda West brings more than 20 years of insurance industry experience to her role as Account Manager at DealerRE. She also has a financial background from working as an F&I Manager at a successful dealership, giving her a strong understanding of both insurance operations and dealership profitability. That combination helps her support clients with practical insight into how reinsurance programs fit into everyday F&I performance. Brenda's experience allows her to communicate clearly with dealers, anticipate common concerns, and help maintain the responsive service DealerRE is known for across its nationwide client base.