With decades of experience in the automotive industry, Kevin has established himself as a Sales Grand Master and a pioneering force at the intersection of automotive sales and technology. Known by his partners as the ‘translator of tech to sales success,’ he bridges the complexities of modern technology with the realities of the automotive business to drive profit.
Kevin is one of six children with relatives across three continents, a husband for 30 years, the father of three sons, foster father of five, and Big Brother. So yeah, his family comes first. Kevin immigrated to the United States at age 13, bringing with him the warmth, wit, and work ethic that would later become hallmarks of his professional success.
Automotive Excellence
Kevin’s journey in the automotive industry spans every facet of the business. Starting as a “lot boy” at his dad’s used car dealership, he quickly rose through the ranks to become a general sales manager and finance director. He served as a director of growth at West Herr Automotive Group, one of the largest dealer groups in the nation. His hands-on experience and in-depth understanding of dealership operations would later prove invaluable in his entrepreneurial ventures in software and towing.
Entrepreneurial Vision
In a bold move to revolutionize the automotive auction industry, Kevin co-founded Auction Simplified with his partner Phil Gates. The company developed innovative software solutions that streamlined the auction process for automotive businesses. Under their leadership, Auction Simplified grew to become a significant player in the industry, culminating in a successful acquisition by Traxero in 2021 and ultimately the merger with Autura in 2024
Innovation Integration
Today, as a key figure in the automotive and towing software sector, Kevin continues to drive innovation in the industry. His expertise spans traditional automotive sales, digital transformation, and software implementation. The software he helped develop now serves as a crucial component in modernizing salvage and impound yard operations across the country with Autura Marketplace.
“Through software, innovation and knowhow, we can future-proof the towing industry, empowering 2nd and 3rd generation owners to succeed for generations to come.”
(Kevin. at the Baltimore Tow Show 2023)
Irish Roots
Despite his professional success in the USA, Kevin maintains strong connections to his Irish heritage. He still visits his cottage in County Wexford, Ireland, embodying the bridge between his origins and his achievements in the United States. “I have so much family in Ireland that I could never find the time to visit them all.”
Legacy of Leadership
Kevin’s career is characterized by his ability to identify opportunities, build successful teams, and implement transformative solutions in the automotive industry. His journey from an Irish immigrant to a successful entrepreneur and industry leader serves as an inspiration to others in the field.
His profound understanding of both the traditional automotive business and modern technology solutions makes him a unique voice in the industry, capable of bridging the gap between old-school automotive knowledge and cutting-edge digital solutions.
How to connect:
Kevin can be reached at 716-818-4444 or me@kevinleigh.com