As the organization handed out other honors and scholarships, ADESA president and chief executive officer Tom Caruso recently became the newest member of the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association's Ring of Honor.

A veteran of more than 30 years in the automotive industry, Caruso is the 22nd industry leader to be inducted into the Ring of Honor, NIADA's highest award to a non-dealer.

"Tom has been a good friend since we first met when he was general manager of ADESA Boston," NIADA CEO Michael Linn said. "Like our other Ring of Honor members, he has dedicated his career to the automotive industry, always giving of his time and resources to improve the image of the industry and to assist its dealers," Linn continued.

"It has always been a pleasure and an honor for me to have known all of our Ring of Honor recipients. We are deeply indebted to their service," Linn went on to say.

Caruso began his auction career as factory manager at Concord Auto Auction and was general manager in 1992 when ADESA purchased the Massachusetts auction. He rose through the ranks, becoming Northeast regional vice president in 1998, executive vice president of Eastern operations in 2007, chief operating officer in 2008 and president and CEO a year later.

Caruso now oversees ADESA's operations throughout the United States and Canada, establishing the company's direction and leading the development and execution of its goals and objectives.

Caruso has served as president of the National Auto Auction Association and on the board of directors of the National Vehicle Leasing Association and the Massachusetts Independent Automobile Dealers Association.

In 2006, he was awarded the Massachusetts IADA's highest honor — its Lifetime Achievement Award.

"It is a truly an honor to be named to the Ring of Honor," Caruso said.

"As a charter member of the Massachusetts IADA, I have remained active in the association at the local level for more than 25 years," he continued. "I'm continually impressed by all that NIADA does to support dealers and our industry. It is a privilege to accept this award."

 

Source: Auto Remarketing Today - Online News, June 21, 2012
NAAA Posted 6/21/2012