Staff

We would like to welcome Kevin Jones back as our new General Manager for Watermark Ford Nissan of Madisonville. Kevin has been in the automotive business for 42 years. 

Brad's journey is as dynamic as the cars and employees for which he advocates. Born in Alliance, Ohio, he moved to West Frankfort, Illinois, in 1981.  A Frankfort Community High School graduate (Class of '87), Brad's academic path took him from John A. Logan College to SIU-C, where he earned a B.S. in Political Science with a minor in Psychology in 1991, setting the stage for a career built on connecting with people.

Since 1992, Brad has been a part of Marion's automotive scene, climbing the ranks at the Ford Hyundai Lincoln dealership-from salesperson to body shop manager to sales manager and to general manager. His hands-on approach and knack for leadership led him to partner with Mike Absher in 2013 when Nissan of Marion became part of the Watermark Auto Group family. In 2019, his dedication and vision were rewarded when he was named President of the Watermark Auto Group, all while continuing to drive success at Watermark Ford Hyundai and Watermark Nissan of Marion.

When the showroom lights dim, Brad can be found in one of two places, on the golf course or with his family. Married to his best friend, Melanie, since 1991, their partnership has been marked by shared values and lifelong commitment. Melanie, whose career as an English teacher inspired countless students-from her early days in Cobden Unit School District 17 to her long tenure at Marion High School-retired in 2019, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to her students. Their daughter, Mackenzie Poole, MD, MBA, is now making waves in the medical field, completing a dermatology residency at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.

Whether on the lot, on the course, or at home, Brad's story is one of hard work, genuine connections, and a commitment to excellence-both in business and in life.

I was born and raised in Southern Illinois. I grew up in a "car family" on both the maternal and paternal-side as both of my grandfathers and both parents were car dealers. I started working in the shop as a custodian starting at age 12, and worked at the dealership until graduation from high school.

I graduated Marion (Illinois) High School and then attended the United States Military Academy at West Point New York with the intention of being a career Army officer. I ultimately left the Academy and the Army voluntarily and returned home. As a 48 year old, I wish I could talk to my 18 year old self and take back that decision as I regret not staying and serving my country. That experience though has instilled in me a profound respect for those that have served! I then enrolled in SIU-Carbondale and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a concentration in entrepreneurship. I worked at the family dealership throughout my college years as a warranty administrator and service writer.

Upon graduation, I was employed as Parts and Service Director, sales manager, used vehicle manager until I left the family company in 2003 to start a software firm named DealerWare LLC selling F&I Menu Selling software to car dealerships. We were very successful and this was the wildest ride of my life. We ultimately were endorsed by American Honda and were in the process of rolling out our software to the Honda dealerships nationwide, when our biggest competitor decided to take me out. And so, they did, and I sold DealerWare in 2006 to DealerTrack, Inc. 

I decided to get back into the business I missed so much and purchased Marion Ford, Inc in my hometown. I have since purchased three other dealerships, in Marion IL, Paducah KY, and Madisonville KY, and that has evolved into the Watermark Auto Group.

I have played the trumpet for nearly 38 years, and enjoy every opportunity I get to play in a brass quintet with some friends from high school and college. I also enjoy woodworking, and have lots of cool equipment that is really dangerous, but I never turn on because I am too busy in the car business.

I have been married for 24 years to Cheryl, who is a licensed non-practicing attorney. We have three sons aged 20, 17, and 13.

I am retired from service on the Southern Illinois Healthcare Board of Trustees and as President of our local school board, and was sworn in as Mayor of my hometown of Marion, Illinois on April 22, 2019.

Neal is from Sebree, Kentucky and is currently living in Graham. He has been with Watermark since 2011. In his spare time, he enjoys baking cupcakes - and they are seriously the best cupcakes around.

Jerry is originally from Clay, KY but currently resides in Madisonville. He has 20+ years of sales experience and previously worked for Carhartt and UPS. In his free time, Jerry enjoys boating, tennis, Fantasy Football, and swimming. He is a father of two incredible daughters.

Meet Brandon Belt - Sales Professional at Watermark! 

Hailing from Madisonville, KY, Brandon Belt brings a strong work ethic and a passion for helping people to Watermark. Before starting his journey in sales, Brandon worked in factory jobs and corrections, gaining valuable experience in teamwork and dedication.

In 2018, he joined Watermark and spent over five years in sales, building relationships and helping customers find their perfect vehicles. After taking a year away for a new challenge in 2023, Brandon realized his true passion was in automotive sales and made the exciting decision to return!

Outside of work, Brandon loves spending time with his family, as well as enjoying the great outdoors through hiking, kayaking, and camping. He also has a passion for golf and football-his ideal Sunday would be spent hitting the golf course and then watching the Los Angeles Chargers play! 

We're thrilled to have Brandon back on the Watermark team-stop by and say hello!

Join us in welcoming Brandon Bardell to the Watermark Ford Nissan of Madisonville team as our newest Sales Consultant!

Originally from Chicago, IL, Brandon now calls Madisonville, KY home. He brings a diverse background in customer service and leadership from Tyson Foods, Perdue Farms, and Verizon Wireless-experience that makes him a great addition to our sales team!

Outside of work, Brandon is a dedicated father to his three daughters and loves spending time with them. He's also a big sports fan and enjoys catching a game whenever he can.

Brandon is excited to help customers find the perfect vehicle, and we're thrilled to have him on board! Stop by Watermark Ford Nissan of Madisonville and say hello!

With over 40 years in the automotive industry-including 25 years with Nissan-Steve Alfter brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Watermark Ford Nissan of Madisonville as our Parts & Service Director. His dedication to customer service and passion for the industry make him an invaluable part of our team.

Originally from Aurora, Illinois, Steve now calls Ozark, Illinois home, where he enjoys spending time on his farm and hunting. He and his wife, Kara, love the outdoors and take pride in maintaining their farm together.

With decades of experience and a true passion for what he does, Steve is committed to providing top-notch service and ensuring every customer has the best experience possible.

Next time you're at Watermark Ford Nissan of Madisonville, be sure to say hello to Steve!

I was born and raised in Island, Ky. I have been in the automotive business for 20 years. In my free time, I love to drag race and spend time with family. I have been married to my wife Cindy for 18 years and we have a son Connor who is 11 years old.

More details regarding Lisa are coming soon.

More details coming soon.

Say hello to Desmone Ardizzone, one of our Express Technicians here at Watermark Ford Nissan of Madisonville!

A Madisonville native, Desmone takes pride in keeping vehicles running at their best. With a strong work ethic and hands-on expertise, he's dedicated to providing fast, reliable service to our customers.

Outside of work, Desmone is always on the move-he enjoys hunting, fishing, hiking, boxing, acrobatics, and swimming. Whether he's exploring the outdoors or staying active, he brings the same energy and passion to everything he does!

Meet Patrick Garcia, a dedicated Express Technician at Watermark Ford Nissan of Madisonville who brings skill, precision, and passion to every vehicle he services!

Originally from Belen, New Mexico, Patrick now calls Central City, KY home. With a love for all things mechanical, he takes pride in ensuring customers' vehicles are in top condition.

When he's not under the hood, Patrick enjoys watching sports and perfecting his craft. But his greatest joy comes from spending time with his wife and four kids, making family his top priority.

Patrick is always ready to deliver fast, friendly, and reliable service-stop by and see him in action!

I was born and raised here in Hopkins County. My husband and I recently bought a house right down the road from where we both grew up in Nortonville. We are both glad to be back in our hometown!

The car business is really all I know. I started working for Hudson Auto before they were bought out by Watermark. I started my senior year in high school 2005 answering phones and slowly worked my way up to the position I have now. They worked with my schedule though college where I obtained a Bachelors degree in Human Services and Counseling. I briefly worked with Big Brothers Big Sisters before starting full-time in the office at the Toyota store. In January of 2017 I made the move over here to the Ford Dealership and couldn't be happier! 

My husband and I got married in 2020 and just celebrated our 4th Anniversary! We welcomed a baby boy in September of 2022! We now have a 15 year old and a 20 month old!

Taelyn was born and raised in Madisonville, KY. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and watching funny videos. Her family consists of one brother, mother, and father, and her English bulldog (Milly), mini Goldendoodle (Moscato), and kitten (Mittens).

More details to come.