Jim Ronan joined Arrow Limousine in 1986 and is one of the company’s longest serving drivers. For over three decades, Jim has been dedicated to Arrow’s timeless tradition of responding to the company’s needs by ensuring that clients get where they need to be on time and safely. And, when he’s not taking the wheel, you can find Jim taking the ballroom dance floor for the Cha-Cha or perhaps even the Rumba.
How long have you been employed with Arrow Limo?
I have been with Arrow 32 years! I started May 26, 1986.
How did you become an Arrow driver?
Fred Farina, Arrow’s human resources manager, hired me against his better judgment. He may have thought I lacked the proper temperament.
What does it take to be a driver for a luxury car service?
First and foremost, the primary attributes for driving for a luxury car company are to drive safely at all times, be punctual, and always be polite. It also doesn’t hurt to do a certain amount of “role reversal” so that you can better understand what the customer seeks.
You must meet a lot of interesting people who are going to interesting places … any fun stories that you would like to share?
I’ve driven passengers for celebratory occasions such as weddings, proms, and the like, and for those going through life’s tragedies like funeral services, domestic abuse, drugs, and alcoholism. But, perhaps the most interesting incident occurred when I drove a Micmac Indian chief who asked me if he could play his ceremonial flute in the back of the car. Of course, I obliged. He was traveling to various college campuses selling his CD and giving concerts. I must say, it was very haunting music, but I was privileged to experience it.
What did you do before switching careers?
Before becoming an Arrow Limo driver, I was a letter carrier for 14 years. I served in the Army for three years and lived off my earnings from the racetrack for two years.
Tell us something that people may not know about you.
Most people probably don’t know that I am passionate about ballroom dancing! I have been taking lessons for over 22 years and I frequently perform at exhibitions and competitions. I’m getting better and better with each passing day.
What do you love most about your job?
My job is stressful, it tries my patience, and can frequently be challenging financially. However, over the past 32 years, I’ve met some of the best people EVER. I also love the quiet moments in the car. Those times when it’s completely empty and I can engage in some serious thought and problem solving.
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