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Cox Automotive Inventory Solutions
Grace Huang is president of Cox Automotive’s Inventory Solutions group, which includes Manheim, the nation’s largest wholesale vehicle marketplace, and a suite of digital solutions and vehicle services spanning the U.S. and international markets. Groups that report to Grace include Manheim’s Physical Services and Auctions, Digital Marketplace, Logistics Solutions and Cox Automotive International.
Huang is evolving Manheim's used vehicle marketplace into a seamless experience across digital and physical platforms. This includes fueling its leading digital channels such as Manheim.com and Simulcast with data-driven tools that help clients compete more effectively and profitably. Her role also extends to strengthening Cox Automotive’s leadership and innovations in the areas of mobility, AI, vehicle imaging and EV battery health.
Huang’s industry honors and leadership recognitions are numerous. They include Automotive News’ “100 Leading Women in the North American Auto Industry” in 2025 and 2020, National Auto Auction Association's "Warren Young Fellow" in 2024, Northwood University’s “2022 Distinguished Women Award,” Automotive News’ 2021 “All-Star” in Remarketing” and “Notable Champion of Diversity,” a 2019 profile in Auto Remarketing’s “Power 300” edition, a “Women who Mean Business” in 2019 by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, inclusion in Profiles in Diversity Journal’s 2018 Women Worth Watching,” and Auto Remarketing’s “Women in Remarketing” in 2017.
Huang’s leadership also extends to volunteering her time and talent to support the community and industry. She formerly chaired the Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities and during her tenure, launched the capital campaign and planning of a new Atlanta House. Other leadership roles include serving on the advisory council for Endeavor Atlanta, part of a global movement that supports the next generation of entrepreneurs by promoting job and wealth creation, sustained economic growth and a culture of giving back. She also sits on the board of trustees for The Walker School in Atlanta and has served as an executive co-sponsor of Cox’s LOTUS Asian American Pacific Islander Employee Resource Group (ERG).
Cox Automotive
Jonathan Smoke is the Chief Economist for Cox Automotive, where he tracks the economy, new and used vehicle sales, supply, prices, retail and fleet demand, consumer credit and auto financing, and dealer sentiment to understand the key trends impacting both the wholesale and retail markets for vehicles informed by the proprietary data from Manheim, Autotrader, Kelley Blue Book, vAuto, Xtime, and Dealertrack.
For more than 28 years, Smoke has focused on translating data and trends into relevant, actionable insights. Prior to joining Cox Automotive, Smoke served as Realtor.com’s chief economist. Before that, he was the chief economist for Hanley Wood, a media and market intelligence company, and also served in a variety of roles at Beazer Homes.
Smoke is an executive member of the board for the Atlanta Economics Club and is a member of the Conference of Business Economists, Harvard Industrial Economists and the National Association of Business Economists. He speaks at conferences such as the NADA and NIADA conventions, Automotive News World Congress, and Used Car Week. His views on the economy and the auto industry are featured regularly in industry and national news outlets such as Automotive News, Auto Remarketing, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Bloomberg, and CNBC.
Smoke holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and religious studies from Rhodes College and a master’s degree in business from The University of Texas at Austin.
Automotive Remarketing Alliance (ARA)
Mark Coleman has served as the Executive Director of the Automotive Remarketing Alliance (ARA) since 2023. Prior to his role with ARA, Mark was a VP Sales with Remarketing by GE and Remarketing by Element where, together with his teammates, he was instrumental in building the largest third-party remarketing program in the industry. Prior to GE and Element, Mark was a small business owner and held several roles with Chrome Systems. Mark lives in Portland, Oregon with his wife of 35 years and three cranky cats.
Element Fleet Management
Lisa Prestidge has over thirty-five years of experience in the automotive industry, focusing on vendor relations and customer service. Currently, the Remarketing Manager at Element Fleet Management in Canada, she has driven sales growth and managed fleet solutions for over a decade. Prior to her role at Element, Lisa spent more than 24 years at GMAC/ALLY/SmartAuction, gaining expertise in vehicle value analysis and auction processes. A passionate advocate for industry advancement, Lisa currently serves as the Co-Chair of the ARA Canadian Committee as well as a Board Member for the ARA. Her outstanding contributions were recognized when she was awarded the 2021 ARA Remarketer of the Year, acknowledged in 2022 for Women in Automotive and most recently was awarded the 2025 Consignor of the Year at CAR. She is especially enthusiastic about sharing knowledge and supporting women in automotive, whether they are just beginning their careers or have experienced long-term success. Outside of work, Lisa is a proud mom to her son Keegan, who constantly amazes her with his knowledge, charismatic presence and amazing career. She also enjoys going glamping with her fiancé, Roman.
Automotive Ventures
Steve is the General Partner of Automotive Ventures, an early-stage Mobility-focused venture capital firm.
Steve has more than 25 years of experience in the automotive technology space. He started his career in 1999 selling software to car dealers and has overseen more than $1 billion in automotive technology acquisitions.
Steve served as TrueCar’s Senior Vice President of Strategy and Business Development, and AutoTrader.com’s Vice President of Product Management and Business Development, overseeing the acquisitions of vAuto, Kelley Blue Book, HomeNet Automotive, VinSolutions, and DealerScience.
Earlier in his career, Steve served as Manheim’s Director of International Development, spearheading Manheim’s overseas investments, including establishing new joint ventures in Dubai, Istanbul and Beijing.
He is the author of two books: "The Future of Automotive Retail," and "The Future of Mobility." He is also the author of the Weekly "Intel Report."
For fun, he likes to ride his three motorcycles on the racetrack and hang out with his twelve rescue cats
Montway Auto Transport
Dave Sutton is VP of Business Development and Industry Relations at Montway Auto Transport, where his tenure has been marked by forging strategic partnerships and tailoring transportation solutions. With a background in business development and an MBA, Dave excels in leveraging Montway's nationwide network and technology for customer advantage. Collaborative strategy development and CRM are cornerstones of his approach.
Carvana
Tony is the Head of Policy, Title and Registration Modernization, and Chair of the eSTART Advisory Board. He has been with Carvana’s Government Affairs team since February 2022 focusing on all things “modernization” and representing ADESA. He works with state DMVs and other stakeholders to find modernization opportunities and works to implement business-friendly, modern policies and systems. Particular areas of focus include online title and registration systems, e-signatures, and e-titling.
Prior to Carvana, he spent 10 ½ years at the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, serving in various roles, including as Regional Services Assistant Director with oversight responsibility for 8 of the department’s 16 regional offices, and Title Policy and Procedures Section Lead with responsibility for developing policies and procedures and ensuring compliance with federal and state laws and regulations.
Automotive Remarketing Alliance (ARA)
Lauren Baker is the Director of Growth and Operations at the Automotive Remarketing Alliance (ARA), a role she has held since 2023. With over 15 years of diverse experience in the automotive industry, including co-owning a dealership and holding leadership roles at PHH and Element Fleet Management, she brings a thoughtful, well-rounded perspective to her work. Lauren lives in Florida with her husband and their three children.
DAK Consulting LLC
Dan Kennedy is the owner of DAK Consulting LLC. Previously, Dan worked for General Motors holding various positions, the most recent, managing the GM Remarketing team. Dan retired from GM in June 2017 after nearly 40 years of dedicated service, with the last 31 years of those years in the remarketing area. During his time in GM Remarketing, the group was responsible for inspecting, vehicle acceptance, transporting, repairing and selling over 15 million vehicles. His function was also responsible for the contracting of services and training the various contracted partners to handle the vehicles, auditing results and implementing process and system improvements on behalf of GM. Following his retirement from GM, Dan joined CT Services, LLC as the Senior Vice President of Business Development in June 2017. He retired from CT Services, LLC on July 1, 2024. Dan has a Master’s degree from Central Michigan University and undergraduate degree from Oakland University. Dan was elected to the National Auto Auction Association Hall of Fame in 2011, named the National Remarketing Executive of the year in 2013, received the Industry Leadership Award in 2017 and is a Warren Young Fellowship recipient.
Dealers Auto Auction of the Rockies & Dealers Auto Auction of the Southwest
Shelly Frank has built her career in the auction and lending industries, holding various executive roles in both marketing and operations. Before transitioning to the auction sector in 2008, she gained extensive experience on the lending side as Repossession and Remarketing AVP at Fireside Bank and as Branch Manager/VP at WFS Financial.
Her work across both industries has given Shelly a unique and comprehensive understanding of the operational needs of auctions from both the lenders and auction’s perspectives. In her current role as National Accounts Director for Dealers Auto Auction of the Rockies and Dealers Auto Auction of the Southwest, she focuses on building strong relationships with credit unions and financial institutions nationwide.
Shelly’s expertise and insights have been invaluable to the auctions she represents and the clients she serves. She is actively involved in trade organizations, having served on the Board of the CCUCC Sacramento Chapter and as a member of the Compliance Team for the ARA. Her auction knowledge helps lenders better understand auction processes while offering a secure, professional, and profitable platform for remarketing vehicles.
In addition to these roles, Shelly is the co-founder and primary lead of GROW — Global Remarketing Opportunities for Women, launched in 2022, where she is dedicated to supporting and empowering women in the Auto Remarketing industry.
Auction Management Solutions
Cynthia Meyer is Vice President of Business Development with Auction Management Solutions, Inc. Cynthia is a 20+ year automotive industry veteran with diverse remarketing and leadership experience. She has enjoyed a successful career working with auctions and commercial consignors by increasing customer market share, managing operational performance and achieving business directives. Her prior roles included Director of Sales and Marketing with Manheim and ADT, National Sales Director for Dealers Auto Auction Group and Vice President of Sales with Liquid Motors. Cynthia Meyer is a graduate of Arizona State University with a degree in business and a past recipient of Women in Remarketing. She chairs the Independent Auction Group marketing committee, was a board member of the Automotive Remarketers Alliance and is currently a committee chairperson for the ARA Conference Planning and Marketing Committee and ARA Membership Engagement Committee.
NextGear Capital
Danny McNelis Director of Auction Relationships, NextGear Capital, Cox Automotive Danny McNelis Danny has over 26 years in the automotive industry. He started at NextGear Capital as a Client Solutions Executive in 2012, became an Account Executive in 2014, and moved to Cox Automotive as a performance consultant in 2016. He returned to NextGear Capital in 2017 as Sr. Client Solutions Executive. In January 2022, he joined the Auction Services team as Auction Director, now overseeing a team of Funding & Compliance managers. Before NextGear, Danny held various sales and operational roles domestically and internationally. He currently serves as the Chairperson of IAG's Membership Committee, Co-Chair of NAAA's Education and Training Committee, and volunteers as a CAR Certification Proctor. Danny said, “Building long-lasting relationships is my strength. I aim to create strong connections to grow our business and help our partners succeed in our dynamic industry. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Studies from Dublin City University. He actively participates in his child's sports, enjoys traveling to Ireland, and explores the country in his family's RV.
Credit Acceptance
With 25 years of experience in the automotive industry, Jackie Malik is a seasoned Remarketing Professional. Her career began in various roles within auto dealerships, where she developed her expertise and gained a deep understanding of the automotive market.
For over two decades, Jackie has been dedicated to the growth and success of Credit Acceptance, where she currently serves as Remarketing Manager. In this role, she leads a team of Remarketing Representatives responsible for managing a high volume of vehicle sales at auctions nationwide. Her leadership has been instrumental in streamlining processes across her various roles at the company, contributing to enhanced efficiency and overall departmental success.
In addition to her work at Credit Acceptance, Jackie serves on the Executive Committee of the ARA as well as Co-Chair of the ARA CAR Certification Committee. As a Lifetime CAR Certified professional, she is deeply committed to advancing industry standards and promoting best practices in automotive remarketing.
Jackie has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to the industry, including being named a 2019 “Women in Remarketing” honoree. She was also co-recipient of the “Remarketing Executive of the Year” award in 2020. In 2024, she received two distinguished awards at Credit Acceptance: “The Brett Robers Changing Lives Award” and the “Culture Catalyst” award.
Big Valley Auto Auction
Mere entered the auction industry back in 2016, always having his eyes set on moving up and contributing to those around him and the industry he loves. Serving as AGM of Big Valley Auto Auction, and with over 9 years in the auction industry, he has learned the ins and outs of the auction world, through experience, hardwork and great leadership. Being CAR Certified since 2017, helped him go into Auction Academy, Class 6, to have a broader perspective and understanding of the auction industry. He was also co-recipient of the First Annual, Maria Acuna Essence Award, awarded from Auction Academy. Mere also is a co-chair on the CAR Certification Committee and has also volunteered countless hours as a CAR proctor, being Safety Sam and Privacy Pam certified, as well as ACT Certified, he believes these are the stepping stones for a brighter future and setting the standard for the auction industry. Servant leadership is always at the forefront and also loves to lead the way one would want to follow, as well as empowering employees to have a voice and always be top priority. He was once told, "if you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life", a saying he holds near and dear to his heart.
Preowned Auto Logistics
JEREMY LOUISOS SVP/Co-founder - Preowned Auto Logistics As Senior Vice President of Preowned Auto Logistics, Jeremy Louisos works closely with the rest of the senior leadership team to make the PAL vision a reality. Joining the team in 2002, Jeremy has worn nearly every hat, giving him a unique and deep understanding of the auto logistics industry. Jeremy is focused on company strategy, executive sales, technology and operational excellence. He is also the host of the PAL Podcast, and is regularly a contributor and guest on several industry publications. Recently, Jeremy was honored with the Auto Remarketing 40 Under 40 award, and Co-chairs the ARA Industry Advancement & EV Readiness Committees. Outside of PAL, Jeremy enjoys time with family and friends, adventuring outdoors, playing music, throwing airmails, and appreciating the many wonders of the NH seacoast.
Vitu
David Spencer, Vice President of Sales, Remarketing, Lending, and Strategic Account Solutions for Vitu, brings to the forefront over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive retail, lending, and insurance. However, his expertise doesn't stop there. With an additional decade dedicated to mastering the nuances of the electronic registration and titling industry, David stands as a beacon of knowledge and innovation in this ever-evolving field. His dedication and proficiency have not gone unnoticed. Nationally acclaimed as an automotive registration and titling thought leader, David's insights have become invaluable to industry professionals and jurisdictions, having been invited to speak at several industry events and interviews. Furthermore, his command over E-Titling technology has solidified his status as a subject matter expert in this cutting-edge domain.
CARFAX
Shawn has been in the automotive industry for 25+ years, sixteen of those years with CARPROOF/CARFAX Canada, with roles in Sales, Customer Support, Business Development, and Product Management. Shawn is passionate about innovation as a driver of growth strategically and professionally, is unwavering in doing what is right for the industry and his customers and is insistent on having some fun along the way! Shawn is grateful for the invaluable relationships he has built over the years with colleagues, customers, and employees alike.
Awareness to Action Coaching
Joe Miller is a leadership coach certified by the International Coaching Federation, and coaches those transitioning to higher levels of management, leadership, and influence. Over 25 years in progressive marketing, sales, service, product, and leadership roles, including 15 years in auto remarketing, Joe recognized the power coaching has to transform not just our job performance, but our approach to life. We are in the middle of the most extraordinary leadership shift ever, and Joe's mission is to help it advance by giving leaders a head start as they take on greater responsibility.
Privacy4Cars
Michele is an experienced Automotive Industry Executive with over 20 years of knowledge specializing in the future of Mobility, Remarketing and Privacy. Michele provides vision, expansion, and strategic direction to companies on the forefront of automotive. Her extensive and diverse relationships have unearthed and created business cases in several verticals in the auto industry and identified growth opportunities to support systematic and logical scalability. Michele serves the ARA as a member of the Board of Directors and Cochair of the Industry Advancement Committee. Michele serves GROW - Global Remarketing Opportunities for Women and a Lead for the RemarketHer Sessions and additionally serves the NAF, National Automotive Finance Association, on the Networking Committee.
Auction Academy
Penny Wanna holds dual roles as Vice President of Administration for TPC Management Company and President of Auction Academy (Founded by TPC Mgt.). Her TPC Management responsibilities range from due diligence management in acquisitions/divestitures, accounting, and project management to conference and event strategies for its many clients and associated companies, including, Auction Academy and Interstate Automotive Services. She has been an active member of the Auto Auction industry since 2004 and proudly holds several Industry Certifications: IARA Certified Automotive Remarketer, IARA Audit & Compliance, NAAA Safety, and NAAA Data Privacy. Wanna serves as one of the Directors on the IARA Executive Board, Co-Chair of the IARA Education Committee, and holds committee positions for IAG Education, NAAA Education, and NAAA New Members Ambassadors. Simultaneously to her time with TPC Mgt and Auction Academy, she spent 12 years working with the ServNet group as their VP of Admin between the years of 2011-2018. Penny was honored in 2018 as a member of the “Women in Remarketing” class group and again honored with the prestigious NAAA Warren Young Fellowship award in 2021 for her countless volunteer work and commitment to the Remarketing Industry. Prior to her association with TPC Management, Wanna spent ten years with Comcast in Minneapolis, MN as a report analyst for the company’s resource management department. She holds an Associates of Applied Science Degree from Columbia State College., where she graduated magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa. Born and raised in St. Paul, Minnesota, Penny joined the staff at TPC Management in 2004 as an Executive Assistant and Office Manager. She and her husband Jiles, who is Vice President of Client Services at TPC Management, have three children. They are based in Franklin, Tennessee.
Akron Auto Auction/Value Auto Auction
3rd Generation President of the Akron Auto Auction and Value Auto Auction. He was Past President of the ServNet Auction Group; Independent Auto Auction Services Corporation (IAASC), and National Automobile Auction Association (NAAA). Chad is also an IARA Certified Automotive Remarketer as well as Chairman of the NAAA Education & Training Committee and serves on the Convention Committee as well as on the Independent Auction Group (IAG) Board and IAASC Board. Born in Canton, OH, Chad earned his bachelor’s degree in mass communication from Miami University in Oxford and a master’s in business administration from the University of West Florida in Pensacola where he currently serves on their alumni board of directors. In his spare time, he coaches varsity basketball where he serves as the President of the Jackson Youth Basketball Association as well as serving on the varsity football staff where he is the President of the Jackson Football Association. Has two sons Cole (23) and Caden (19) as well as married to his Wife (Tracie).
EBlock
With over 18 years of expertise in Automotive Finance & Remarketing, Bryan McIntyre has held key management positions in Captive Finance, Banking, and non-prime lending sectors. Joining EBlock in 2023 as Director, Commercial Sales, he is responsible for business growth in the fleet, rental, and repo segments of the digital wholesale business. Prior to joining EBlock, Bryan spearheaded the Remarketing & Operations Support divisions at Hyundai Capital Canada, overseeing the development and execution of Lease End & Remarketing processes for Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis brands. Renowned as a seasoned leader and strategist in Remarketing, Bryan additionally contributes his insights as a valued member of the IARA Education Committee in Canada, and is CAR certified.
Auction Management Solutions
Tom Stewart is a seasoned veteran of the wholesale automotive auction industry and is the President and Founder of Auction Management Solutions, Inc. Auction Management Solutions is a consulting firm working with auto auctions, auto finance companies, vehicle manufacturers, corporate fleets, commercial lessors, third party servicers, and e-commerce companies. With decades of experience, he has established himself as a trusted leader and innovator in the automotive industry, having launched his career with Anglo American Auto Auctions. He later served as Director of Remarketing for KeyBank in Cleveland, Ohio, where he gained valuable leadership and operational expertise. For the past 15+ years, Stewart has led a variety of consulting projects, focusing on developing strategies that drive profitability, boost productivity, and enhance customer service for AMS partners. In addition to his professional work, he currently serves as Chair of the ARA Conference and Events Committee, contributing to the advancement of industry standards and collaboration.
Copart
Kevin Vuong is the Chief Information Security Officer for Copart, a global online vehicle auction company. Kevin has over 20 years of experience in complex multi-tenant datacenter, service provider, and enterprise environments. With his wide range of technical and leadership experience, Kevin has built a global team focused on defending critical infrastructure and systems against dynamic cyber threats such as ransomware and large-scale Denial of Service attacks. Prioritizing a forward-thinking cybersecurity culture within his team and throughout the organization continues to be one of Kevin’s main goals to continue addressing the industries evolving challenges.
DAA Southwest
Vice President, Dealers Auto Auction of the Southwest Jim Mumford brings many years of experience in the automotive remarketing industry and currently serves as Vice President at Dealers Auto Auction of the Southwest. Throughout his career, Jim has held leadership positions of increasing responsibility, including multiple General Manager roles at several Cox Automotive/Manheim locations. A 30-year veteran of the remarketing industry, Jim’s expertise spans strategic planning, operational leadership, and execution. His career is defined by a strong track record of driving performance, managing high-volume auction operations, and fostering strong industry relationships. Jim holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Arizona State University. Outside of work, he remains actively involved in his family commitments and contributing to local charity initiatives.
Privacy4Cars
Jamye Carpenter is Vice President of Customer Success at Privacy4Cars, bringing over 25 years of leadership in automotive remarketing and technology. She co-chairs the AI Committee for the Automotive Remarketers Alliance, serves as Secretary for Global Remarketing Opportunities for Women (G.R.O.W.), and sits on the Membership Committee for the Independent Auction Group. A two-time Women in Remarketing honoree (2021, 2025), Jamye is a recognized advocate for vehicle privacy, AI innovation, and the advancement of women in the industry
Holman
Holly Vollant currently serves as Manager – North American Remarketing, at Holman. In her current role at Holman, Holly leads the charge in growing the business and working with clients to maximize the value of their remarketing portfolio through a detailed and consultative approach. Holly has more than 15 years of experience leading teams and working to drive clients’ success in automotive remarketing and wholesale remarketing for national, regional, and local fleet management companies, leasing companies, banks, credit unions, specialty finance companies, dealers, wholesalers and corporate fleet managers of all sizes. Holly has been widely recognized for her accomplishments in the auto industry including being recognized as one of Auto Remarketing’s Top 40 Under 40 as well as it’s Women in Retail award. She has been an active member of the Automotive Remarketing Alliance for nearly 10 years, currently serving as Co-chair of the Marketing and Engagement Committee and previously served on the Executive Committee as the Executive Board Secretary for 2 years. She is committed to the growth and success of IARA. Holly is a Lifetime Certified Automotive Remarketer, IARA ACT Certified, and holds a Bachelors Degree in Business and Finance.
ACV Auctions
John Coles, Ph.D. is the Vice President of Data Science and Analytics at ACV, the leading digital automotive marketplace and data services partner for dealers and commercial partners, where he leads data infrastructure, machine learning and data analytics strategy. He has been with ACV since 2019 and has helped the company define success metrics to guide product, sales and operations growth. Prior to joining ACV, Dr. Coles held many leadership roles, including Chief Technology Officer and Chief Product Officer of Bronze Trident Inc., a startup in Buffalo, New York, where he designed the business model and product plan for an automated tax challenge software. He has also worked as a Program Manager and Senior Research Scientist at CUBRC Inc. and served as a faculty member at University at Buffalo and Buffalo State College. Throughout his career, Dr. Coles’ work in disaster relief, emergency management and counter- terrorism has been supported by the U.S. National Science Foundation and the Department of Homeland Security. He has also served on the board of Global Biotechnology and Cancer Therapeutics (GBCT) for Roswell Cancer Institute. Dr. Coles was recently recognized as an Auto Remarketing ‘40 Under 40’ Honoree (2021) and was awarded the Koopman Prize from the Military Appreciations Society of the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS) for “Introducing Terrorist Archetypes: Using Terrorist Objectives and Behavior to Predict New, Complex, and Changing Threats” (2017)—among other accolades. He regularly speaks at auto industry conferences such as the Conference of Automotive Remarketing (CAR) and the International Automotive Remarketers Alliance (IARA) summer He holds a Bachelors of Science from the University at Buffalo, a Masters of Engineering from Texas A&M University, and a Ph.D. in Operations Research from the University at Buffalo.
Greater Rockford Auto Auction/Great Lakes Auto Auction
Chad has been a proud member of the auto industry since 1997 when he began working in the detail department at the Greater Rockford Auto Auction (GRAA). He has held various positions at GRAA including in detail, fleet/ lease, and the sales department. Chad became General Manager at GRAA in 2014. Additionally, upon the opening of Great Lakes Auto Auction in November 2022, Chad became Vice President. Chad has his MBA from Northern Illinois University and a BA in Management/ Marketing from Concordia University Wisconsin. Chad sits on the IARA Board of Directors and as well as various committees within the National Auto Auction Association.
Dealers Auto Auction Group
John Swofford, VP of Operations for the Dealers Auto Auction Group, brings over 30 years of auction expertise, skillfully navigating both digital and physical auctions. With a rich background in sales and operations, he excels in fostering strong relationships with both Fleet and Dealer consignors. An active member of the National Auto Auction Association’s standards and governance committees, John has also served on the Independent Board of Directors for AutoIMS. John’s innovative spirit earned him an Espey Award with Manheim for his mobile auction trailer design in 2007. He is passionate about creating successful, reciprocal business strategies that drive the industry forward.
United Recovery and Remarketing/Stream
Mr. Wilson is a hands-on executive that has been in the automotive & lending business since 1986. He managed C&F's growth from a $65 million portfolio with 35 employees to over $460 million with 125 employees. This included market expansion from 1 to 20 states while maximizing profits and managing the compliance with state and federal laws and regulations. Throughout his career, he has displayed strong people skills that complement his impressive financial and operational background. Having spent 13 years in the automotive sales and service business prior to his transition to the auto finance space, he has a unique insight and perspective into the auto lending, auto/service and sales businesses. At United, Mr. Wilson has been involved in all aspects of the business: repo, remarketing, transportation, training, auction services, and operations. Mr. Wilson's belief in training and development had led him to invest in people throughout his career and develop a training/learning culture wherever he worked. He founded C&F's Leadership Development Program, recruiting college graduates, & training them in all aspects of the business shaping them in to successful managers. He developed C&F University which allows team members to take classes that allow them to better understand all aspects of the business and to grow as leaders. In 2022, Mr. Wilson became the Director of Training, Education and Development for C&F. Mr. Wilson served on the ARA Education Committee and serves on the Professional Advancement and Leadership committee. He has been a panelist at Used Car Week, NRC, and the Automotive Intelligence Summit, on the topic of asset remarketing & technology . The relationships forged with the key players in the industry have allowed him to create strong partnerships throughout the industry, also serving on several lender committees with vendor partners. Mr. Wilson lives by Virginia Tech's motto Ut Prosim-That I May Serve. He is an Ambassador for the Navy SEAL Foundation, founding Board member & President of the Wellington Waves Swim Team, Race Director for the Allen Stone Memorial Races benefiting the Navy SEAL Foundation, original member of the Williamsburg United Athletics team pushing challenged athletes in running events, Team Hoyt, coached youth sports, youth mentor for Operation 300 Gold Star camps, volunteer leader for Surfer's Healing for Autism, and the Tampa Bay Frogman Swim. He has an MBA from Virginia Tech, a B.S. in Accounting from Old Dominion University, and a B.S. in Finance from Virginia Tech. He is an ARA Certified Automotive Remarketer, ARA ACT (Audit and Compliance training) certified and CARS-FC certified. He holds a certificate in Human Resource Management and is a Six Sigma Black Belt.
Orlando Longwood Auto Auction
General Manager - Orlando Longwood Auto Auction as of June 2, 2025 General Manager - AutoNation Auto Auction for last 5 years prior. Regional VP West for Adesa GM for Manheim, ADT, Anglo Amercian Auto Auctions for 20 years prior
International Recovery Systems
Jeremy Cross is the owner and visionary behind International Recovery Systems Inc., a leading repossession company he has nurtured for over 15 years into one of the largest organizations on the East Coast. Under his leadership, IRS has expanded its operational footprint and leveraged cutting-edge technology to set industry standards in efficient asset recovery. Jeremy's commitment to innovation and operational excellence has positioned IRS as a trusted partner in the financial services sector. Outside of his professional endeavors, Jeremy serves as a board member and current treasurer of the American Recovery Association (ARA), where he plays a pivotal role in shaping industry best practices and advocating for member interests. Personally, Jeremy finds joy in his roles as a dedicated husband and father of two teenagers, balancing his entrepreneurial drive with a deep commitment to family life.
OPENLANE Canada
Michael Will is Senior Director of Commercial Customer Solutions at OPENLANE Canada and also serves as Co-Chair for the Canadian ARA. Michael has over 30 years of experience in the Canadian Automotive Industry including Captive Finance & Lease, Sales, Marketing & Dealer Relations and Remarketing roles with a premium OEM. Most recently Michael has held Commercial Auction positions with Manheim and now OPENLANE Canada.
ACC
Mike has over 20 years experience in Sub-Prime automotive, primarily in the backend/loss mitigation of account servicing. Having worked for finance companies both big and small, and agent and auction vendors both nationwide and regional, he has experienced many of the wins and challenges that face servicing leaders today.
Ariaal, LLC
Kevin Kostuik has over 25 years of experience in the design, implementation, and deployment of artificial intelligence technology for enterprise applications. He is a leading practitioner of advanced digital technology for business, with experience in many industries including automotive, energy, transportation, consumer goods, mining, and chemicals. Kevin's expertise focuses on the intersection of business and advanced technology, finding the right balance of people, process, and technology to achieve high value and long lasting business solutions. Kevin currently serves as Co-Founder and Director of Ariaal, LLC (www.ariaal.com), and Co-Founder and General Manager of PDQ, LLC (www.pdqdecide.com). He holds degrees in Engineering Physics (B.E.) and Computational Science (B.Sc.) from the University of Saskatchewan in Canada. When Kevin is not at work, you might find him learning Spanish from his kids, trying to grow pomegranates in North Carolina, or wrenching on an old Subaru.
Self Inspection
SW engineering management, leading and scaling large enterprise teams Worked on computer vision-based problems using AI in their core CEO at Self Inspection
PAVE
Mike Francis - VP of Sales - Mike is an automotive executive with over 30 years of experience in online remarketing, auto finance sales, analytics and vehicle inspections. Prior to joining PAVE as Vice President of Sales in 2022, Mike held the same position at Alliance Inspection Management (AiM). Mike started his career in the vehicle remarketing group at VW Credit, Inc., and spent 8 years at SmartAuction.
AutoNation Auto Auction Orlando
Robbie is the General Manager of AutoNation Auto Auction Orlando. He has been involved in the auto industry for nearly 20 years with projects spanning retail, auto lending, and auctions. His background and experiences have produced a unique perspective and passion for the industry that he loves to share and he loves to collaborate with the great people of the car business and remarketing industry.
ACV Auctions
Dr. Philip Schneider graduated with his PhD. in Electrical Engineering from the University at Buffalo and now leads the Research and Development team at ACV. He and his team were responsible for developing some ACV’s flagship technologies like the Virtual Lift™ and Audio Motor Profile (AMP) and continues to push the boundaries in the automotive tech space. He currently sits on the Western New York’s Invention Convention Board and plays an active role in the region’s start-up community.