September 21, 2011
For Immediate Release
Contact: Frank Hackett, Executive Director
[email protected]
301-696-0400

CHICAGO, Ill.— The National Auto Auction Association (NAAA) has named Alexis Jacobs, owner and president of Columbus Fair Auto Auction, a pioneer of the industry for her professional achievements and many contributions to the remarketing profession. The honor was presented during the association's 63rd annual conference this month in Chicago. The NAAA represents more than 300 auction members in North America.

This Industry Pioneer Award, given to those who have worked in the wholesale motor vehicle industry and/or NAAA, recognizes an individual who has innovated or enhanced methods of improving services to remarketers through NAAA member auctions; has championed NAAA member auctions as providing services for motor vehicle remarketers unavailable from any other source; and has consistently followed the ethical standards of the NAAA Code of Ethics.

"Alexis has deep roots in the industry, which began at age 12 working in her father's auction, growing to learn hands-on every aspect of the business and develop relationships throughout the industry," noted Owner and Chairman of BSCAmerica Auction Ray Nichols, a past NAAA president. "She is also a passionate, forward-thinking business leader who has been supportive of new initiatives and the NAAA, as well as a personally kind, gracious and generous lady."

Jacobs unexpectedly found herself in charge at a young age of the business started in 1959 by her father William upon his sudden death. She persevered to build a successful company in a male-dominated industry. What began as a one-lane auction leasing space at the Ohio State Fairgrounds now sells over 190,000 vehicles annually at its 11-lane, 85-acre site in Obetz, Ohio.

This accomplishment reflects Jacobs' willingness to innovate and do things differently while never losing sight of the basic business philosophy learned from her father — the core values of customer service and fair practices. She continues to spearhead the growth of added-value services that support the base business and expand into additional profit centers as well as invest in cutting-edge technology. She was one of the original founders of ServNet.

Jacobs has been active in various trade associations, civic groups and charitable organizations. She has been involved with NAAA for more than four decades, including five years as Chair of the Legislative Committee before becoming only the association's second woman president in 1996. Jacobs is a champion of efforts to enhance member services and promote legislative initiatives that benefit the industry. Her numerous philanthropic deeds include giving her time and money to help the homeless and orphans, youth clubs and scholarships.

"Over the years Alexis has generously befriended many people in a variety of professions as a mentor, willing to share her knowledge and leadership skills," said Past NAAA President Larry Tribble, Ower and President of Southern Auto Auction. "Her ethics and high standards have made her successful for the simple fact that people just want to do business with her. She truly embodies all the qualities this award esteems and is greatly deserving of this honor."