Auto finance usually isn’t a dangerous profession. But being a repossession agent certainly can be when delinquent contract holders respond with violence as the recovery professional is tasked with taking back the collateral for failure to stay current on monthly payments.

To highlight these professionals, Loss Prevention Services has presented the Repossession Agent of the Year Award to Shane “Doc” Foster of Metro Investigations & Recovery Solutions.

“Doc Foster at Metro has shown the highest level of leadership, initiative, resourcefulness, and work ethic. Loss Prevention Services appreciates the partnership and open communication that allows us to work together in a more efficient and effective manner,” Loss Prevention Services president and CEO David Cowlbeck said.

“Metro strives toward goals that exceeds the expectations in the field and in the office. They are clearly a differentiator in the direct agency space and set the bar high for their peers,” Cowlbeck continued. “Doc is simply an outstanding performer and is the pinnacle of a high standard of leadership that we all need to move our industry forward.”

Foster will be honored during Used Car Week, which begins on Nov. 18 in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Metro Investigation and Recovery Solutions has been in operation since 2009, beginning in the Baltimore area and growing to serve all of Maryland, Washington D.C., Delaware, and even Houston.

Cherokee Media Group connected with Foster to get his perspective about the industry and more. Here is that conversation.

CMG: What do you remember about your first days in the repossession business? What lasting impact did that time in your career leave on you that still resonates with you?

DF: I vividly remember my first days in the repossession business. Back then, it was all about groundwork, intuition, and physical effort. There were no high-tech tools, so it required a lot of footwork, phone calls, and building relationships in the community to track down vehicles. It was both challenging and exhilarating, but it taught me the importance of persistence and attention to detail early on.

One of the most lasting impacts from that time was learning how to stay calm under pressure. There were moments of uncertainty and tension when interacting with vehicle owners, but I quickly learned that remaining composed and respectful was essential for diffusing difficult situations. That skill has stayed with me throughout my career.

Another takeaway was the sense of responsibility the job carried. Every vehicle we repossessed had a story behind it, and while it was a business transaction, there was always a human side. This shaped my belief in handling each case professionally and ethically. That foundation from my early days still resonates with me today and continues to guide how I approach every recovery.”

CMG: Guessing it’s many things, but what have been some of the main changes in the repossession business that’s happened since you started your career?

DF: Over my 40-year career, the repossession industry has evolved tremendously. When I started, the process was much more manual and relied heavily on direct, in-person investigations and paper documentation. Today, technology has transformed every aspect of the business. The rise of GPS tracking, advanced data analytics, and automated systems has streamlined the location and recovery process, making it more efficient and reducing risks.

Another major change has been the increased focus on compliance and regulation. Early on, there was far less oversight, but now we’re governed by strict state and federal laws, particularly around consumer rights and privacy. This has required the industry to adopt higher standards of professionalism and ethics.

Additionally, the shift in consumer behavior and the financial landscape has changed the volume and nature of repossessions. The 2008 financial crisis, for example, was a turning point, leading to higher repossession rates, but also brought about reforms in how lenders and repossession agents interact. Overall, the industry’s become more technology-driven, regulated, and customer-centric compared to when I first started.

CMG: What are some of the most misunderstood attributes about the repossession industry from people inside and outside of the automotive?

DF: One of the most misunderstood attributes of the repossession industry is that it’s often perceived as purely aggressive or predatory. However, in my 40 years of experience, I’ve seen that the job is primarily about professionalism, compliance, and balancing empathy with business objectives. The work requires a deep understanding of state and federal laws, strong negotiation skills, and a focus on customer relations.

From those outside the automotive world, there’s often a lack of awareness about how much effort goes into locating, securing, and repossessing a vehicle without confrontation. It’s not just about recovering assets; it’s about protecting the financial ecosystem. For those inside the industry, some overlook how much collaboration and communication are involved with lenders, insurance companies, and law enforcement, which is key to maintaining safety and professionalism in every case.

CMG: What do you like about your team at Metro Investigation and Recovery Solutions? How do those professionals work together to make the company successful?

DF: What I truly value about my team at Metro Investigation and Recovery Solutions is the level of professionalism and mutual respect we have for each other. Everyone brings a unique set of skills to the table — whether it’s field agents with years of experience, the office staff managing logistics and compliance, or our tech team handling data analytics and security.

We work seamlessly together because we understand that clear communication and trust are key. Every repossession involves many moving parts, from planning and coordination to execution, and we all depend on one another to get the job done safely and efficiently. It’s not just about recovering vehicles — it’s about maintaining our reputation for integrity and professionalism, while also adhering to legal and ethical standards.

This collaborative environment fosters accountability, continuous learning, and the ability to adapt to challenges, which are crucial for the company’s ongoing success.”

CMG: What was your reaction to being named the Repossession Agent of the Year?

DF: Being named Repo Agent of the Year was both an honor and a humbling experience. After 40 years in the industry, it felt like a culmination of all the hard work, dedication, and challenges I’ve faced along the way. My initial reaction was one of gratitude — not just for the recognition, but for the team I’ve had behind me at Metro Investigation and Recovery Solutions. Their support and collaboration have been essential to my success.

What makes the award truly meaningful is that it acknowledges the commitment to professionalism, compliance, and ethical standards that I’ve always strived to maintain. It also reminded me that no matter how long you’ve been in the business, there’s always room to learn, grow, and improve. Ultimately, this recognition motivates me to continue setting a high standard in the industry and mentor others to do the same.

CMG: What words of encouragement would you like to share with your fellow agents in the field?

DF: My words of encouragement to fellow agents would be to stay resilient and focused on the bigger picture. The repossession industry can be tough, with long hours, challenging encounters, and ever-changing regulations, but it’s also a field where professionalism, patience, and persistence pay off.

I would remind agents that every interaction matters — approach every situation with respect and integrity, no matter how difficult it may seem. The way we conduct ourselves in the field reflects not only on our company but on the entire industry.

Also, never stop learning. Technology, laws, and strategies are always evolving, so staying informed and adaptable is key to long-term success. And finally, lean on your team. We’re all in this together, and having the support of others who understand the unique challenges we face makes all the difference. Keep pushing forward, knowing that the work we do plays an important role in the financial system and in maintaining trust with our clients.”