CARMEL, Ind. -

Two of ADESA’s auctions in the Western U.S. have gained new general managers, the company revealed Wednesday afternoon.

Appointed to be the new GM at ADESA Las Vegas is Theo Jelks, who held that same role at ADESA Los Angeles since 2009.

The new GM for ADESA Los Angeles is Chad Ruffin, whose time with the company includes roles as GM of ADESA San Diego and assistant GM at ADESA Los Angeles.

Sharing more about Jelks’ experience, he has been with ADESA since 2001, when he came aboard as executive sales director. Jelks moved on to become ADESA Tampa’s GM in December 2005.

Before his days with ADESA, he was with auto reconditioning product manufacturer Car Brite, where he was new business manager.

Jelks also served in the U.S. Air Force and spent almost a decade in criminal justice and security.

“Theo is a proven leader who knows what it takes to run a successful auction,” stated Tom Caruso, chief executive officer and president at ADESA.

“I am excited to share his expertise with our newest greenfield auction. I encourage everyone to attend our ribbon-cutting ceremony at ADESA Las Vegas on October 13 and welcome Theo to his new role,” he added.

Meanwhile, Ruffin’s most recent post was as executive director of sales for the company. Before he came aboard, Ruffin worked at Manheim for six years, serving in various positions, including time as Ford account manager and reconditioning manager.

His background also includes the auto finance realm, as he held remarketing roles for Arcadia Financial, CitiFinancial and HSBC Auto Finance.

“Chad is well-known and well-respected in the industry,” Caruso added. “His extensive auction experience and solid client-relationship skills will be an asset for our employees and our customers at ADESA Los Angeles.”