XLerate Group recently announced that it has brought on Tom Francois as the new general manager of the group’s Badger State Auto Auction in Fond du Lac, Wis.

Francois succeeds Tim Netz, who is retiring after 18 years of service at the auction.

“We are grateful to Tim Netz for his leadership, service and dedication to Badger State Auto Auction and wish Tim the best in retirement. At the same time, we are excited to have Tom Francois join the XLerate Group Auction family,” XLerate chief executive officer Cam Hitchcock said in a news release. “Tom brings over 30 years in sales and auto auction management, plus extensive experience in the automotive remarketing industry, serving as the past president of the Midwest Chapter and long-standing board member at both the regional and national levels of the National Auto Auction Association.”

Francois said his ability to build and maintain strong client relationships has attributed to his success as a leader, according to XLerate.

“I look forward to linking clients with XLerate’s innovative solutions,” Francois said. “My priority is to ensure every dealer receives top-notch service and great execution.”

Francois holds a B.A. degree in business administration from the University of Wisconsin – Lacrosse.

GEAA celebrates 13 years

In other auction news, Greater Erie Auto Auction recently celebrated its 13th anniversary with over 500 cars in the lanes and $10,000 in prizes for dealers during its latest sales event held this month.

“I want to thank all of our dealers and our great employees for 13 wonderful years. Without their daily and weekly support, this would not be possible,” GEAA managing partner Todd Briggs said.

On May 9, AFC and NextGear ran special floor plan promos which drew dealers from 14 states, either in-lane or via simulcast.

Dave Warren of Dave Warren Chrysler Dodge Jeep won the auction’s grand prize, a John Deere riding lawnmower.

“Everyone at GEAA strives to do what is right for our customers daily, and our staff has worked diligently to make Greater Erie a great place to be each week for dealers to buy and sell inventory,” Briggs added.