Meet Valley BMW Client Advisor, Jeff Grondz

Our Client Advisor, Jeff Grondz, was featured in the Ripon Stroll Magazine!

Check out this feature and get to know Jeff a bit more…

While Ripon may be seen as a mere pit stop for many traveling California’s Central Valley, for its residents, it is home. Establishments like Valley BMW that serve the community with both distinction and proximity, are truly a cornerstone of this community that we hold so dear. The strong connection between Ripon and Valley BMW is clear through the Grondz family. Jeff Grondz, originally hailing from Michigan, entered into the telecommunications industry post-college, eventually leading him to California. He met his now-wife and love of his life, Dora, in the Bay Area. Their family now includes two sons, Jake (20) and Brady (17).

In 2000, Jeff’s career trajectory shifted from telecommunications to the automotive sector. He, alongside two partners, founded a high-end luxury car dealership in Fremont, CA. Over the years, Jeff fostered relationships with clients, gaining a unique perspective on high-end vehicles and sales. The disruptive impact of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted his partners’ retirement and the sale of their interests.

Though rooted in Tracy, CA, the family chose to enroll Brady and Jake at Ripon Christian, when they were in 6th and 8th grade. Despite Jeff’s long commutes to his dealership, the family grew increasingly attached to Ripon through their connections with RCS and the local community. Jeff further strengthened their ties, spending much of his time coaching football and track. In 2019, they officially made Ripon their home.

In 2022, Jeff crossed paths with another Ripon resident, Ryan Fitzpatrick. Ryan was looking for someone like Jeff to join the Valley BMW team. With over 15 years of operation, the dealership thrived through assembling a team of proficient professionals. Jeff’s comprehensive understanding of the automotive industry, coupled with his passion for uniting BMW’s superior products with enthusiastic community members made him the ideal candidate.

Jeff explains, “BMW is known as the ultimate driving machine for a reason. They’re engineered for the autobahn—no speed limits—and built to withstand collisions at those speeds. They ensure families’ safety even at those speeds.”

Jeff assumed the role of a Senior Client Advisor, focusing on guiding clients through every step of the decision-making process. This career shift ushered in new experiences while grounding him in the essence of effective salesmanship: a community united by exceptional cars and service. Jeff recounts a time when he recognized a familiar name of a prospective client at Valley BMW. A bit of investigation revealed that this client had made a previous purchase at his original dealership years ago. This client’s familiarity with his previous experience led him 70 miles back to Jeff for his new BMW purchase.

Jeff’s pivotal role at Valley BMW is mirrored by his family’s significance within the Ripon community. Jeff now heads the Track team at RCHS and serves as an assistant coach for the Varsity football team. Additionally, he was recently elected as an elder at Calvary Reformed Church. His sense of belonging extends to both Valley BMW and Ripon.

To connect with Jeff and the Valley BMW team, visit their location at 4725 McHenry Ave, Modesto, CA 95356, or explore their website, www.valley-bmw.com. The vehicle you purchase with them will not just make a pitstop in Ripon, it will bring you home.

(written by Larissa Winder)