International. The Counter Professional of the Year award, sponsored by WIX Filters and presented at AAPEX in Las Vegas, annually recognizes an automotive parts professional whose dedication, work ethic and experience elevate their business and the profession as a whole.
WIX Filters, a global manufacturer of filtration products, and AMN/Counterman magazine named Amanda Balk of Automotive Parts Headquarters as the 2022 Counter Professional of the Year. Balk is the manager of the Auto Value parts store in Thorp, Wisconsin.
"Amanda is the very embodiment of the career professional accountant," said WIX Global and U.S. senior marketing manager Tina Davis. "His clients respect his judgment and wise counsel, and his leadership skills are second to none. It is an honor to recognize this tenacious advocate for our industry."
A lifelong Wisconsin resident, Balk joined the Auto Value team in 2010 and quickly established herself as a highly capable counter professional who could connect with local clientele in Thorp.
"I know the community," he explains. "I'm involved with the people here. I've known most of them since I grew up here as a child," Balk says.
"She combines all that skill with a great personality," adds Matt Koxlien, regional manager for Auto Value in western and northern Wisconsin. "It feeds on customer relationships. He prides himself on knowing people very well and understanding what they need."
In 2014, automotive parts headquarters (APH) recognized Balk as the auto value counterpart of the year. In June 2019, Auto Value promoted her to store manager and the store has thrived under her leadership. In 2020, Balk was the Auto Value Impact Player of the Year and earlier this year, APH named Balk Manager of the Year for Auto Value Store 2021.
"We are thrilled to recognize Amanda Balk as our Counter Professional of the Year 2022," says Josh Cable, editor of Counterman.
"The Counter Pro of the Year award recognizes the best of the best, and Amanda certainly qualifies. When you meet Amanda, it doesn't take long for you to realize that her dedication, professionalism, expertise and customer focus are off the charts."
