Richard Torres is a lifelong resident of Somerset, MA & presently residing in Swansea, MA. Richard graduated from Somerset High school in 1983. Richard began his automotive career in Fall River, MA that year at Barboza Auto World, where he was a Sales Associate for 3 years. Richard quickly advanced to Sales & Finance manager and onto General Sales Manager. While at Barboza Ford, he was recognized by Ford Motor Company and was part of the Ford Masters Program. The Ford Masters Program is awarded to management who are top producers in the country and have above average customer satisfaction scores.
In 1995 Richard became the General Manager of Empire Chevrolet in Fall River and in 2001 became President at Empire Hyundai of Fall River and purchased the business in 2005. Upon purchasing the business Richard became involved with several organizations in the community. Richard coached several youth soccer teams & held positions on the Somerset / Swansea youth soccer board as well as the Vice President of the Nor’easter Stingers based in Fall River and surrounding areas. Richard was instrumental in obtaining scholarships for less fortunate children in order for them to be able to play the game of soccer. Richard served on the board for 12 years. Richard also served on the Hyundai Motor America Dealer Council from 2006 to 2012.
In addition Richard has been involved in & has been a donor to the Rhode Island special Olympics , Mass special Olympics, The Jimmy Fund, Dana Farber, Hope on Wheels, Fall River Marine Museum, Fall River Public Schools, Saint Vincent’s Home, The Fall River Police Department, Citizens for Citizens, Fall River Falcons, Fall River Christmas Parade, Pop Warner Football, The Disabled Veterans of America & hundreds of other local organizations. Empire Hyundai is also one of the main sponsors of the Great Feast of the Holy Ghost, the Day of Portugal Fall River & also the Madeira Feast in New Bedford, MA.
Recently Richard completed his term with the Fall River Chamber of Commerce & was awarded the Fall River areas Chamber of Commerce Business of the year award for Empire Hyundai. Empire Hyundai also received the award for the Best Auto Dealership of the year & for the last several years Empire Hyundai has received the Best New Car dealer of the Year award from the Fall River Herald News.
Richard works full time & is very instrumental in the day to day operations at Empire Hyundai and in the community. Richards greatest accomplishments & pride are his Family and business and being able to continue to support the many organizations which is necessary in our community.
