ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -

Whann Technology Group announced Tuesday that founder Keith Whann will now head up day-to-day operations of the company, having stepped down from his post as chief executive officer of Columbus Fair Auto Auction.

Whann joined CFAA in 1987 and had been CEO and an owner for the last 10 years. He will be an owner for the short term, but won’t be involved in the business operations.

“Relinquishing the reins is always difficult, especially when you care so deeply about your employees and your customers. I will remember my time at CFAA fondly and miss the relationships that have developed over the years,” Whann said.

He added: “As much as I enjoy the auction lanes (we all know there is nothing else on earth like an auction on sale day), I really love the technology side of our industry.

“We are very fortunate for the unique opportunities that currently exist for WTG. I see technology continuing to be at the forefront of our industry and being a disruptive force in both the wholesale and retail automotive sectors and being able to devote full time to WTG will allow us to play a part in all of this.”