May 16, 2008 • IronPlanet, Pleasanton, Calif., recently promoted Mike Groves to the position of senior vice president of North American sales. Groves will be responsible for IronPlanet's continued growth in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
“Mike's extensive experience in the auction business and his command of the industry have been instrumental in IronPlanet's success and growth,” said Gregory Owens, chairman and CEO of IronPlanet. “Under Mike's leadership we will continue our investment in our North American sales organization as well as business process improvements to ensure that IronPlanet continues to deliver exceptional service and value for our customers.”
Groves has been with IronPlanet for five years, most recently serving as vice president of territory sales. As a result of Groves' strong sales leadership, IronPlanet posted record sales of $231 million in 2007 • up 42 percent over 2006 • and expanded its sales force by more than 75 percent over the past two quarters. IronPlanet also reported a record first quarter this year, with gross auction sales of $77.6 million • up 135 percent over the first quarter of 2007.
“IronPlanet's continued marketplace momentum and growth demonstrate the tremendous confidence our construction and agricultural customers have placed in our online auctions,” said Groves. “Our guaranteed inspection reports and ability to outperform traditional auctions by selling equipment faster and more profitably are some of the main reasons our customers continue to come back time and time again.”
“I am also extremely fortunate to work with a very talented sales team that has an unwavering passion for our business and, most importantly, is relentlessly focused on making our customers successful,” said Groves.
Before joining IronPlanet, Groves worked for 11 years in the auction industry as vice president and general manager of Forke Brothers and division manager of Ritchie Brothers. Groves also held the position of regional used equipment manager for Nortrax Southeast.
