Top 2009 News: ADESA Announces Changes to Auction Management

Top 10 News Items from 2009

Original Post: February 27, 2009

CARMEL, IN – ADESA announced changes to two of the company’s auction locations. Theo Jelks, who served as general manager of ADESA Tampa since December 2005, has been chosen as the new general manger of ADESA of Los Angeles.

In addition, John Saullo, previously assistant general manager at ADESA Tampa, will now serve as the auction’s general manager. Debbie Stokes has also been promoted from commercial accounts manager to assistant general manager of ADESA Tampa.

“Since Theo joined ADESA Tampa, it has been one of our fastest growing auctions,” said ADESA Chief Operating Officer Tom Caruso. “He is not only a proven leader, but he’s also demonstrated that he has the skill set and knowledge necessary to manage a successful auction. I’m excited he has chosen to bring this expertise out to the West Coast and manage ADESA Los Angeles.”

Jelks join ADESA in 2001 as an executive sales director. Prior to ADESA, he was new business manager of Car Brite, a manufacturer of professional automotive products. Jelks’ background includes five year of military service in the United States Air Force and nearly a decade in criminal justice and security, including seven years with the Wichita Falls Police Department in Texas.

An industry veteran, Saullo brings more than 30 years of experience in the automotive industry to his role as general manager at ADESA Tampa. He joined ADESA in 2006 as an inside sales professional. Prior to that, he held a number of top leadership positions at several auctions throughout Florida. Saullo’s background includes military service in the United States Marine Corp., including a year of service in Vietnam.

Stokes’ background includes nearly 15 years in the automotive industry. Prior to joining ADESA in 2006, she held management roles at auto auctions in the Florida area as well as working for CitiFinancial Auto as an inventory remarketing specialist. Stokes holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of South Alabama.

“I was pleased to promote both John and Debbie to head our operations at ADESA Tampa,” said Caruso. “They know their market, they know their customers, and I’m confident ADESA Tampa will continue to thrive under their leadership.”