Start at the bottom and work up
Mark, have you had a specific experience you'd like to share?
I think having experience selling cars first makes for a better F&I manager!
I agree with Scott. Having a solid foundation in car sales makes for an easier transition and a better Finance Manager. However, I've also found that just because you can sell cars (tangible objects) you aren't going to kill it in finance (intangible objects). It's a different selling proposition and an entirely different process.
Get good at selling vehicles and learn all you can about F&I. When I was in a dealership, I asked if I could be a backup finance person when we got busy on Saturdays or when we were shorthanded. It was a great way to find out if the Finance Manager position would be a good fit for me.
@Walter, who is your F&I Provider? Chances are, they provide all the training and tools needed to get you there. We provide our dealers personnel training as part of our “value-add.” You should inquire with your Agent.
How to become a finance manager at a car dealership...is it an easy task? What's the best path to take?