Longtime auto auction industry leader Lynn Weaver has retired from his position as executive director of the Independent Auction Group.

Weaver made the announcement Tuesday at the National Auto Auction Association’s World Remarketing Convention in Chicago. The move is effective immediately.

Replacing Weaver is Dave Blake, who has served as IAG’s co-chairman since 2010.

“It has been an honor to lead IAG for the past five years,” Weaver said. “Under Dave’s leadership, IAG is destined for future success. Dave’s in-depth understanding of independent auctions, his innovative leadership skills and his passion for our industry make him uniquely qualified to be the next executive director, and I wish him all the best in his new role.”

Weaver became IAG’s first executive director in 2018, accepting the newly created position after serving as co-chair with Blake and auction owner Charlotte Pyle.

Weaver’s automotive career spans more than 40 years, including 18 as editor of NADA’s Used Car Guide, which later created AuctionNet. He was co-owner of Harrisburg Auto Auction and stayed on as general manager after selling the business to America’s Auto Auction in 2014, stepping down from daily operations in 2018.

Lynn Weaver

He also helped start AuctionEdge, AutoIMS and Auction Academy, and has been active in NAAA leadership, serving on its NAAA including membership, legislative, auction standards and convention committees, and president and secretary/treasurer of NAAA’s Eastern Chapter.

Weaver was honored as Remarketer of the Year at the 2016 Conference of Automotive Remarketing, and is a member of the NAAA Hall of Fame.

“Lynn’s extensive knowledge of our industry made him the ideal candidate to take over as executive director of IAG five years ago,” Pyle said. “He has worked tirelessly to advance the interests and raise the profile of independent auctions, and I am grateful for his service and dedication to our industry.”

Blake has been in the auto auction industry nearly 30 years and has been involved in all aspects of the business, including sales, operations and management. He has served on NAAA’s board of directors, as well as the education and training committee.

To accommodate his responsibilities as IAG executive director, Blake has transitioned from his general manager role at DAA Seattle into a new vice president position with McConkey Auction Group, focusing on new initiatives, representing MAG within industry associations and exploring opportunities to enhance business.

“I am humbled and honored to become IAG’s new executive director,” he said. “I have seen first-hand the dedication of our members, their resilience and willingness to adapt, and their dedication to our industry.

“I look forward to working with our members to build on the excellent foundation Lynn laid for us.”