Meet The Team

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Operating Officer

Chief Technology Officer

VP of Arbitration

Marketing/Sales Manager

Lead Web Developer

Performance Representative

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Bob Gaito

Chief Executive Officer

Bob has an impressive track record of creating and growing several businesses. He formed his first organization, I-Centrix, in 2000, selling it to Haggin Marketing in 2007. His next startup, 4Cite Marketing, would eventually be acquired by one of the largest media companies in the world, Dentsu Aegis. Bob’s founding of Auction Central came about just as every other venture had, by noticing a gap in technology and its relation to the customer’s immediate needs. He is a dealer owner himself, and could not find an auction that had the transparency and customer interface that he desired, so…he made one! Bob’s best feeling is when he hears a dealer say, “Finally, this is exactly what I was looking for… Why isn’t anyone else offering this!?”

 

Patrick Lyga

Chief Operating Officer

Patrick has been in the automotive business for over a decade and brings an array of knowledge and experience to Auction Central. He has acted as the General Manager of six manufacturer franchises and currently co-owns/manages an independent dealership in Upstate, NY. Having held every role in variable operations, he understands the complete wholesale car buying experience and aims to bring full transparency to the buying process. He is extremely customer-oriented and wants nothing more than to create lasting relationships.

 

Nick Snyder

Chief Technology Officer

Nick is one of the three Auction Central partners and currently serves as the Chief Technology Officer. He obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science from the University of Miami and continues to root for the green & orange. He has a strong passion for coding and development and excels at combining his creative abilities with advanced technology to provide the best possible customer interface. Nick is constantly improving & innovating, and that is why Auction Central is the most user-friendly online wholesale auction platform out there!

 

Darryl Mayette

VP of Arbitration

Darryl has served in virtually every position in the automotive industry. He’s been working on cars since fixing transmissions at his grandparent’s dealership when he was 16. He went on to join the U.S. Air Force to serve as a mechanic for 4 years. After getting out of the military, Darryl continued to work in retail and wholesale automotive, holding titles such as Technician, Service Manager, Service Advisor, and Service Director. All in all, Darryl holds nearly 40 years of experience working with cars and when it comes to evaluating/arbitrating vehicles, there is no better man for the job.

Nelson VanDenburgh

Marketing & Sales Manager

Nelson spearheads Auction Central’s marketing department, managing all web content, social media platforms, email marketing & paid advertising channels. He has a very diverse background, serving in marketing roles with the U.S. Army, ESPN Radio, Albany Broadcasting, & The Tri-City ValleyCats. In addition to managing Auction Central’s marketing, he ensures each Territory Manager is well-equipped to assist dealers with buying & selling vehicles across the country. Nelson continues to serve in the New York Army National Guard as the Executive Officer of an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company.

Austen Zeh

Lead Web Developer

Austen is a master of web development, and with help of his team, built our web application from scratch. He is eager to take challenges head on, making Auction Central the best online auction platform on the market. He is also a champion of March Madness Bracket’s and FanDuel Parlays.

Theresa Dalton

Territory Executive - Midwest

Theresa has been in the automotive industry for 30 years now. She has worked in virtually every sector of the automotive industry: Auction, Franchise Dealer, Consumer Finance, and Floor plan. While buying and selling cars now relies heavily on technology, she believes relationships and customer service is the most important part! One of her most prized attributes is her character. She will never compromise quality over quantity! She is honest and transparent, which has been her biggest success in building customer relationships.

Matt Prendergast

Operations Lead

Matt primarily focuses on the operational side of AC. This includes generating leads for territory managers, creating and implementing strategic email campaigns and developing partnership opportunities with industry professionals. Prior to joining Auction Central, he gained valuable experience working in marketing roles within the sports media, nonprofit and restaurant industries. He is a graduate of Siena College (2020).

Zach Edwards

BDC

Zach is a proven business development leader with over 13 years in the automotive industry. He is committed to building teams and fostering relationships with the intent of growing a network that establishes an authentic connection and mutual benefit for both parties. Zach is also the co-founder of another startup company that focuses on consultation services and growth management.

Shaunna Taylor

Billing & Titles

Shaunna is a wearer of many hats and has been with Auction Central since its inception! She has many years of experience working in the automotive industry in similar roles. There is no better person to have on the other side of the line than Shaunna. She is kind, hardworking & dedicated which makes her a model Auction Central employee!

Sasha Smith

Performance Representative

Sasha has 4 years of automotive experience under her belt. She has worked with multiple large franchise dealers, with areas of expertise in sales and business development. She loves working alongside her fellow colleagues and helping people. In addition to her position at Auction Central she also helps her friends in real estate flip houses. Sasha loves spending time with her daughter and volunteering at her favorite animal shelter. She’s an avid reader and dancer.