The Independent Auction Group (IAG) announced Sept. 27 that executive director Lynn Weaver will retire, and IAG co-chair Dave Blake will become the new executive director. The changes are effective immediately.

The announcement was made during the NAAA World Remarketing Convention in Chicago the week of Sept. 25, which Weaver and Blake both attended.

Weaver served as IAG executive director for the last five years. He has been instrumental in advancing initiatives to address the needs of IAG’s membership, and under his leadership and guidance, IAG made great strides during the last five years in becoming a stronger organization.

 Before his appointment as executive director, Weaver served as co-chair of the IAG. He has had a distinguished career in the automotive industry for more than 40 years.

Weaver worked at NADA for 18 years leading its Used Car Guide, which later created AuctionNet. Formerly the co-owner of Harrisburg Auto Auction, Weaver sold the business to America’s Auto Auction in December 2014. He remained as the general manager and retired from daily operations at the auction in 2018.

He also helped start AuctionEdge, AutoIMS, and Auction Academy, all programs that help support and benefit independent auctions. He was honored as Remarketer of the Year at the 2016 Conference of Automotive Remarketing.

Weaver is a member of the NAAA Hall of Fame, served on numerous committees with NAAA including Membership, Legislative, Auction Standards, and Convention Committees, and was a longtime contributor to NAAA’s Eastern Chapter, serving as its president and secretary/treasurer.

“Lynn’s extensive knowledge of our industry made him the ideal candidate to take over as executive director of IAG five years ago,” said IAG co-chair Charlotte Pyle in a news release. “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.”

Dave Blake has worked in the auto auction industry for nearly 30 years and been involved in all aspects of the business including sales, operations, management, and leadership roles. Blake has served as co-chair of IAG since 2010. He has been a longtime supporter of NAAA and has served on NAAA’s Eastern and Western Chapters, Education and Training Committee, and Board of Directors.

“It has been an honor to lead IAG for the last five years,” Weaver said in the release. “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.”

Blake added, “I am humbled and honored to become IAG’s new executive director. I have seen firsthand 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. I would also like to share my genuine gratitude for Lynn and Charlotte’s mentorship, support, and guidance through the years.”

Blake has transitioned out of the general manager role at DAA Seattle into a new vice president role with McConkey Auction Group (MAG) to accommodate the responsibilities of IAG executive director.

In his new VP role with MAG, Blake will be focused on spearheading new initiatives, representing MAG within industry associations, and exploring opportunities to enhance business.