Auto Remarketing is recognizing the 2026 Women in Remarketing honorees in the April edition of the magazine and will be posting Q&As with each of these outstanding leaders on the website.

Next up, in alphabetical order by first name, is Lisa Autenrieth, who is HR manager/event coordinator at Carolina Auto Auction.

The Women in Remarketing program is presented by Ally.

What prompted/inspired you to join the auto industry and what do you enjoy most about it?

My connection to the auto industry is both professional and deeply personal. My father-in-law, Henry Stanley, founded Carolina Auto Auction, and through him I witnessed the heart and values that built our organization. His recent passing has made that legacy even more meaningful to me.

Over the years, I’ve also been inspired by my husband, Eric, and the way he leads with steady conviction and care for people. Watching his commitment to both our team and our industry strengthened my own desire to serve and support the culture we are so proud of.

As a wife and mother, I have always viewed our business as an extension of family. I have seen how this industry supports not just operations, but households, friendships, and lifelong relationships. What I enjoy most is the community the trust, loyalty, and showing up for one another. Being able to help nurture that environment, while honoring the foundation laid before us, is something I carry with gratitude and responsibility each day.

What is the top trend you’re watching in the used-car industry this year?

One of the most meaningful shifts I continue to watch is the growth of online buying that accelerated after COVID. What began out of necessity has become a lasting part of how we do business. Dealers are more comfortable purchasing remotely, and digital platforms have expanded opportunities beyond traditional boundaries.

At the same time, I believe deeply in the importance of in-person auctions. We are in the relationship business as much as we are in the car business. There is something irreplaceable about face-to-face conversations, the energy in the lanes, and the trust built through personal interaction.

I believe the future of our industry is a thoughtful balance of both. Technology provides convenience, but relationships provide longevity. The auctions that continue to invest in people while embracing innovation will remain strong for years to come.

What accomplishment are you most proud of in your career?

Nearly 10 years ago, we began a charity event in honor of our founder, Henry Stanley, during his battle with throat cancer. What started as a heartfelt effort to support the Emory Winship Cancer Institute has grown into one of the most meaningful traditions within our organization.

Our annual comedy night fundraiser has become a sold-out evening centered around generosity, laughter, and community. Through live and silent auctions and the incredible support of our industry partners, we have raised more than $1.5 million for cancer research and local organizations such as Calvary Children’s Home.

As a wife, mother, and leader, I am most proud that this event reflects the heart of who we are, giving back, standing together, and honoring those who came before us. Watching our community unite around something bigger than business has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.

 What book, film or song has inspired you personally or professionally?

I’ve always been drawn to mysteries and crime stories, both in books and on screen. There’s something about the puzzle of it all that sticks with me. “Law & Order” is a favorite. Every episode starts with chaos and conflicting stories, but piece by piece, the facts come out. It’s a reminder that details matter, credibility matters, and patience usually wins.

Professionally, that mindset carries over to my role in HR. I try to approach challenges the same way, gather the facts, ask good questions, don’t jump to conclusions, and let the evidence lead the way. In business, like in a good mystery, the truth is usually there … you just have to be willing to dig a little.

Personally, I just appreciate stories where integrity and persistence rise to the top. Plus, I’ll admit, there’s something satisfying about watching a tight case come together. Keeps the mind sharp.

Who is someone who has inspired you personally or professionally?

My greatest inspirations have been my father-in-law, Henry Stanley, my mother-in-law, Patty Stanley, and my husband, Eric Autenrieth.

Henry and Patty were both Hall of Fame inductees in our industry, but what impacted me most was how they lived and led. Henry built our organization on integrity and relationships, while Patty modeled grace, steadiness, and genuine care for people.

My husband Eric continues that legacy with vision and strength. Watching him lead Carolina Auto Auction and serve our industry, including as NAAA former president, has been a constant source of encouragement and inspiration.

Together, they modeled how to build something lasting while never losing sight of family and community. Their example continues to guide me. As a wife, mother, and leader, I carry forward the values they instilled. Continuing the legacy that began with the family, has been a choice of both honor and responsibility that I hold close to my heart.