In 2020, the Executive Team created the Founders Award to honor, celebrate, and recognize employees who exemplify the values and qualities admired in the Company’s founders, Jim Kelley and Tom Kelley. Throughout the entire year of 2024, the Executive Team gathered submissions from co-workers and supervisors, nominating individuals who embody the following Founders Award criteria:
- Shows excellent character and integrity;
- Exhibits leadership, whether the role is formalized or not;
- Committed to serving others, both personally and professionally;
- An ambassador for Kelley Automotive on and off the clock;
- Truthful and honest in all his or her dealings;
- Maintains a positive attitude in all situations;
- Committed to “doing the right thing” and
- A model citizen and employee.
The Kelley Automotive Group and the Executive Team would like to formally announce and congratulate the 2024 Founders Award Recipients:
Jaime Sotamba and Jose ‘Pepe’ Sotamba
We celebrate the incredible dedication and hard work of two exceptional members of Kelley Automotive. It’s our privilege to recognize the long-standing contributions of Jaime Sotamba and Jose ‘Pepe’ Sotamba.
Jaime joined the Group in 2005 as a full-time detailer. With 19 years of dedicated service, Jaime has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his role and to the Company. His loyalty is evident in his attention to detail and consistency of delivery of high-quality work.
Pepe has been part of the Kelley team as a full-time detailer since 2008. For 16 years, Pepe has not only been able to get the job done, but he has contributed positively to the workplace environment creating a sense of camaraderie among coworkers. His ability to maintain strong relationships while delivering quality results highlights his well-rounded skill set.
Today we recognize Jaime and Pepe as two individual employees who deserve this award for what they bring to the Company as well as what they do together for our community. “Not only are they two of the hardest working employees we have, but they have also impacted a lot of young boys’ and girls’ lives in our community,” said Dave Echenoz, V.P. of Outside Operations.
In 2008, Jaime and Pepe along with their families created something truly special—a soccer league for kids and young adults ranging from 6 years old to 20 years old. What started as an ambitious idea over 16 years ago has since grown into a thriving program with over 500 participants. Over the years, the league has gone from 8-12 teams to now a league with over 45 teams, including men’s and women’s teams, and recently attracting teams from surrounding counties. Jaime and Pepe have not only organized a soccer league but have created an environment that fosters teamwork, sportsmanship, and community. They’ve built something that brings people together, something that allows young athletes to discover their love for the game, develop their skills, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
From scheduling games to organizing referees and keeping track of the league standings, Jamie and Pepe have done it all. Their tireless work ethic and unwavering commitment have been the backbone of this league. The Sotamba and Sibri families often spend their Friday nights preparing the food for the next day, which covers the cost for the soccer fields, referees, equipment, and coaches. Any remaining proceeds is then split between the family members who send it to family in Ecuador for medication and other medical supplies.
Beyond logistics, Jaime and Pepe have shown what true leadership looks like. They have set an example of dedication and hard work and have always put the needs of the players and the community first. “I feel as though the impact of my uncles have had on the kids in this community is truly incredible,” said their nephew, Erick Sibri. Their passion for soccer and their desire to make the league a positive experience for everyone involved is clear in everything they do.
It’s people like Jaime and Pepe who remind us of the value of hard work and dedication. They have shown us the importance of commitment to our community and passion for the work they do. These are the values and the foundation on which this company stands, and we are so fortunate to have both as part of the Kelley family.
Thank you for all that you do for Kelley and our community. This recognition is truly well deserved!