This year’s National Auto Auction Association (NAAA) Annual Convention, held September 22 – 24 in Orlando, put a spotlight on the value of a holistic perspective and collaboration within the automotive industry. To kick off the event, president-elect Mike Browning (general manager, Manheim San Antonio) accepted the remarketing industry’s top leadership role. As NAAA president, Browning brings a well-rounded view of the automotive industry and is eager to put that perspective to good use.

“I’ve been a part of all sides. I’ve been a buyer and a seller. I understand the pain points, the needs and wants of all involved. I feel like I can bring everyone together,” Mike said.

Continuing the spotlight on Manheim leadership’s contribution to the auto auction industry, Jay Cadigan, vice president of industry relations for Manheim, was inducted into the NAAA Hall of Fame. “It’s our pleasure and privilege to honor Jay for his hard work, dedication and commitment to excellence,” said Frank Hackett, NAAA chief executive officer. “He’s a strong believer in the association and what its members can accomplish working together. His efforts have made a positive impact on the remarketing world and provide an outstanding example of professional achievement to future generations in our business.”

Representatives from the industry’s top brands celebrated the year’s successes with awards and recognition, highlighting new leadership aimed at revolutionizing the industry as it moves to increased digital transactions. Cox Automotive’s own Grace Huang was announced as the first ever Manheim senior vice president of inventory services. This role allows Huang to focus on the assurance that dealers are able to work “effectively and efficiently” throughout the wholesale process.

Special recognition was given to two of Cox Automotive’s top leaders, who were awarded the Warren Young Fellowship. Matt Arias, director of arbitration for Manheim and NAAA’s Auction Standards Committee chairman, and Brian Geitner, president of NextGear Capital, accepted fellowships.

Also representing Cox Automotive’s focus on industry-wide solutions, team members from AiM (Alliance Inspection Management) were on hand as ambassadors for innovation within the vehicle inspection process. Advancement in the procedures and transparency in the reporting process are vital throughout the industry as the wholesale and retail sectors move from in-lane and in-store to the online marketplace.

Congratulations to all of our Cox Automotive winners. The following is a list of additional awards and recognition given to Cox Automotive business units throughout the three day event.

Chase Auto Finance 17th annual Chase Cup Award Winners:

• Manheim Minneapolis – Best National Auction Performance and Best Regional Performance, Midwest
• Manheim Seattle – Best Regional Performance, West and Best National Mazda Sales
• Manheim Pennsylvania – Best National Jaguar Sales
• Manheim Riverside – Best National Land Rover Sales
• Manheim Pittsburgh – Best Regional Performance, Northeast 

Winners of the Enterprise Holdings 2015 Auction Achievement Awards:

• Whole-Car Category
  • Manheim Georgia
  • Manheim Nevada
  • Manheim Omaha
  • Manheim Pennsylvania
  • Manheim Riverside
  • Manheim Southern California
  • Manheim Texas Hobby
• Damaged-Vehicle Category
  • Manheim Central California – TRA
  • Manheim TRA Tampa