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 Denice Sanchez, general sales manager at ADESA San Diego. 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?
What started as an entry-level HR role, turned into a career for me.  I was given an opportunity to work in this fast-paced environment where no two days are the same.  I was drawn to the energy of the business, and the relationships you build along the way.  It’s an industry that rewards hard work, quick thinking, and resilience, and that really appealed to me.

What I enjoy most about it is the dynamic nature of the market and the people I work with.  The auto auction world is always changing, whether it’s pricing trends, demand shifts, or new inventory coming through.  Being able to read the market, make smart decisions, and help move vehicles efficiently is both challenging and exciting.  I also enjoy proving that women belong in this space.  It’s traditionally male-dominated, but being able to build respect through knowledge, work ethic, and results is incredibly rewarding.

What is the top trend you’re watching in the used-car industry this year?
One of the biggest trends still is how much technology is shaping the market.  Digital auctions, real-time data, and online platforms are making the industry faster and more transparent than ever.  For someone in the auction business, being able to read the market and adapt quickly is more important than ever- and that’s what keeps it exciting for me.

What accomplishment are you most proud of in your career?
One of the accomplishments I’m most proud of in my career is building a strong reputation in the auto auction industry and earning respect in a space that has traditionally been male-dominated. As a Mexican-American woman, I’ve worked hard to show that knowledge, resilience, and work ethic matter more than anything. Being able to prove myself, build lasting relationships, and be recognized for the results I deliver has been incredibly rewarding.

What book, film or song has inspired you personally or professionally?
A book that has inspired me is “Untamed” by Glennon Doyle. This message has encouraged me to show up confidently, stay authentic to who I am, and not feel like I have to fit into a traditional mold to succeed. It’s also a reminder that when women embrace their strength and individuality, it creates space for others to do the same.

Who is someone who has inspired you personally or professionally?
The people who have inspired me the most, both personally and professionally, are my parents and my family. My parents taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and staying committed to your goals no matter what challenges come your way. Growing up, I saw firsthand the sacrifices they made for our family and the pride they took in always giving their best.

Today, my own family continues to be a huge source of motivation for me. As a mother, they remind me every day why it’s important to keep pushing forward and to set an example through dedication, integrity, and perseverance. Working in the auto industry can be fast-paced and competitive, but the support and inspiration I get from my family keeps me grounded and driven to succeed.