Auto Remarketing is recognizing the 2021 Women in Remarketing honorees in the March issue of the magazine, and will be posting Q&As with each of these outstanding leaders on the website.

Next up is Michelle Casper, regional vice president at IAA.

Auto Remarketing: What do you enjoy most about working in the remarketing industry? But, also, what aspect(s) of the business would you change – and how?

Michelle Casper: I enjoy the fast pace of the industry. There is always something happening, whether it’s the next Category 5 hurricane to hit the coast or helping a buyer navigate our online systems. I am challenged daily and live for it!

AR: What are some improvements that need to be made in the industry from a diversity and inclusion perspective? What are some examples you’ve seen of D&I programs that have worked?

MC: Obviously, I’d like to see more women in leadership positions, but I’m also excited and proud to say at IAA we have recognized the need for diversity, equity and inclusion. We are developing the framework for our own DEI council to ensure we have a culture that does not limit growth and opportunity.

AR: Describe a time when you were either a mentor or a mentee, and how that has shaped your career.

MC: I’m very thankful for the mentor I’ve had in our senior vice president, Scott Guenther. The problem-solving, team-building and leadership skills he has shown me over the years have been immeasurable. In fact, because of those skills I’ve been able to be a mentor to others in our organization, helping them to continue on their road to success within IAA.

AR: Describe a time in your career where you were challenged and how you overcame that challenge.

MC: I’d have to say 2020 was a very challenging year. COVID-19 brought about challenges we’ve never seen before. It definitely showed us how important the safety of our employees, clients and customers are and our responsibility to meet their needs. The entire experience brought us all closer as a team.

AR: What is the top trend/storyline in the remarketing industry that you’re watching this year?

MC: Autonomous vehicles is the most interesting auto trend out there. I grew up watching “The Jetsons.” I’m ready to see the growth and development of self-driving cars. If we are lucky, maybe vehicles that fly will be next!

AR: What is something you would tell your younger self if you could go back to when you started your career in remarketing?

MC: I’ve been in this industry 22 years. In those days, especially as a woman, it was easy to feel you weren’t measuring up to your male peers. I think I would tell myself, you don’t have to be perfect. It’s OK to get it wrong; every mistake is a lesson, not a failure