John Poteet, the longtime leader of Louisiana’s 1st Choice Auto Auction, was named an Industry Pioneer by the National Auto Auction Association during the NAAA World Remarketing Convention in Chicago.

In a news release, NAAA said Poteet was honored for his inclusive and innovative leadership and outstanding service to the wholesale auto auction industry, his community and NAAA.

NAAA’s Industry Pioneer Award recognizes individuals in the wholesale motor vehicle industry who have innovated or enhanced methods of improving services to remarketers through NAAA member auctions, have championed NAAA member auctions as providing services for vehicle remarketers unavailable from any other source, and have consistently followed the standards of the NAAA Code of Ethics.

A veteran of more than 40 years in the auto industry Poteet served as CEO and managing partner of Louisiana’s 1st Choice Auto Auction (LAFCAA) for two decades, leading LAFCAA to multiple Auction of the Year awards from consignors and NAAA.

He was instrumental in developing the auction’s culture and motto: “Outstanding service begins with outstanding people,” and led LAFCAA through challenges including hurricanes Katrina and Ida, the economic crash of 2008 and the COVID-19 pandemic.

John Poteet

Poteet, who holds a Ph.D. in organization and management from Capella University, has served on numerous NAAA and industry boards, including Auto IMS, Auction Edge and ServNet.

He has served on the Louisiana Used Motor Vehicle Commission since 2009 and has been its chairman since 2011. In addition to LAFCAA, his experience includes stints with the Greater Group, Cox Automotive and Big H Auto Auction.

He is also a past president of Options, a local charity organization that helps adults with disabilities live and work independently.

 

NAAA announces Warren Young Fellows

Emily Barber, Billy Willis, Brandon Thompson and Nicole Graham have been honored by NAAA as Warren Young Fellows for their contributions and service to the auto auction industry following their term as NAAA chapter presidents.

NAAA will make a $2,500 donation in each of their names to the NAAA Warren Young Sr. Scholastic Foundation. A Warren Young Fellow is an individual who donates, or in whose honor or memory a contribution is made, that amount or more to the foundation.

The foundation, established in 2004 and named for industry pioneer Warren Young Sr., helps students pursue higher education, assists individuals in times of need and provides support to charitable organizations whose missions align with the foundation.

Scholarships are awarded annually by the foundation for study at accredited institutions.

Barber, a partner of State Line Auto Auction, served as NAAA Eastern Chapter president. Willis was president of the Southern Chapter and is general manager of Greenville Auto Auction. Thompson, the Midwest Chapter president, is president of Mid-State Auto Auction. Graham, who served as Western Chapter president, vice president of portfolio management for NextGear Capital.

 

WAAC headed for Indianapolis in 2024

The 2024 World Automobile Auctioneers Championship will be held next spring at ADESA Indianapolis, NAAA announced.

The association said Manheim Phoenix will host the 2-25 event at a date to be determined.

The WAAC, founded in 1989, draws top auctioneers from around the country to compete for the titles of world champion auto auctioneer, ringman and team.

NAAA acquired the WAAC from Paul Behr in 2022 and held its first event in May at Capital City Auto Auction in St. Albans, W.Va.