Donnie Bazemore: ‘Til the Wheels Fall Off
By Jordan Head, Marketing and Public Relations Manager for GIADA
With the Southeastern Auto Auction’s 8th Annual Invitational swiftly approaching, you better believe Donnie Bazemore, General Manager of Southeastern Auto Auction and GIADA Board Member, is working tirelessly to prepare for it. Having worked at the auction for over 20 years, he knows a great deal about holding a successful auction.
“I started working for the auction in 1996 and I’ve been here ever since,” said Bazemore. “Before that, I was an independent dealer for 10 years.”
Long-time GIADA member, Bazemore has benefited from the association as a dealer and general manager. He explained that he’s established relationships that he couldn’t have without GIADA.
“Initially, I got involved with GIADA as a dealer for the coupons,” said Bazemore. “Once I became General Manager, the membership allowed me to have relationships with dealers and meet people outside of my network. I’ve been with GIADA for nearly 20 years and I’ve gotten heavily involved for the past five years.
“I began listening to board meetings and I saw what they do for dealers,” he continued. “Being a member helps me learn about different scenarios that I can interpret to our dealers and customers. I’m very proud to be involved with GIADA.”
Undoubtedly, Bazemore’s love for the automotive industry surpasses his work. He said he’s participated in several races, many of which he’s won.
“I’ve raced for about 25 years,” said Bazemore. “I’ve won a lot of races and championships. I met a lot of good people there. Now, I’m just a car owner and my son Donnie drives the car.”
Speaking of his son, working in the automotive industry has become a family affair for him and his family.
“My wife, Becky, worked at my lot when I had it,” said Bazemore. “She started her own title business and has been very successful in it. Now, she does title work for several franchise stores and independent businesses. My daughter, Sandy, also does title work with her.”
Bazemore said he takes pride in doing things the right way. When you work with a group of hardworking individuals, this goal is nothing short of attainable.
“I’m motivated by the group of people that I have here,” said Bazemore. “Seeing them grow and learn the business the way I’ve learned it is the most rewarding part of my job. We’re one of the most highly regarded in the auction and we take a lot of pride in that.
“I have a passion for both cars and people,” he continued. “I believe our employees are the bread and butter of our operation and I’m high on them. The owners of the auction gave me the privilege to do what I want and I try to take a hands-on approach. We’ve been very successful.”
According to Bazemore, the Southeastern Auto Auction’s Annual Invitational wasn’t always the big event it is today. A seasoned veteran at the Southeastern Auto Auction, he’s watched it grow over time.
“We started the tournament eight years ago and have around 125 players already committed,” said Bazemore. “The first two years we had people bring their buddies but now, it’s invitational for specified dealers. We’ve gotten a lot more support and sponsorships by doing that.”
As for the future, he mentioned that they’ve acquired additional property which they hope will improve business.
The Southeastern Auto Auction’s 8th Annual Invitational will be held May 3, 2018 at Bacon Park Golf Course in Savannah, GA. For more information, please contact Donnie (912) 663-0673, Katie (912) 531-3284, Michaela (912) 663-0443, Tara (973) 769-1497 or Terry (912) 682-9340 or click here.
