National Auto Auction Association CEO Tricia Heon has resigned, the trade group said Thursday, and Paul Lips will serve as interim executive director.

Heon had been with NAAA a dozen years and previously was its chief operating officer.

“With the deepest of gratitude for her many years of commitment and contributions, the Board of the National Auto Auction Association (NAAA) has accepted the resignation of Tricia Heon,” NAAA’s executive committee said in a statement.

“Tricia’s contributions through her 12 years of service are countless, but notable achievements include establishing the NAAA PAC, increasing Board involvement, leading workforce and educational initiatives, and a relentless pursuit of member advocacy, engagement, and support,” the committee said. “In short, Tricia made the NAAA better.”

Heon was named CEO of NAAA in July 2021, replacing Frank Hackett, who retired from that role after 17 years in the position.

Heon was the first woman CEO in NAAA’s 73-year history.

She had been with NAAA since 2011, when she joined as legislative director and operations manager, and became COO in 2019.

Lips was NAAA president in 2013 and spent 25 years with ADESA and KAR Global.

“As an NAAA Past President, an experienced auction executive, and a tireless contributor to the NAAA through his 25 years at ADESA and KAR Global, Paul is the absolute best choice to lead the NAAA and its dedicated team through this transition period,” the executive committee said.

“We thank Tricia for her service and look forward to Paul’s leadership. See you in Dallas for Total Access 2023!”