Smith Retires as Auto Remarketing Publisher, Zadeits Takes on New Duties

Cary, N.C. (Oct. 31, 2011) – Auto Remarketing publisher Ron Smith, who founded the magazine 20 years ago and has overseen the growth of Cherokee Automotive Group (CAG) to include magazines, digital newsletters and conferences, is retiring as publisher of the national used-vehicle trade journal and will assume the title of publisher emeritus effective Dec. 1, 2011.

Bill Zadeits, Auto Remarketing’s associate publisher, is assuming the role of publisher of all automotive-related publications. Smith will continue as CAG’s chairman and Zadeits as its president.

In addition to Auto Remarketing, CAG publishes SubPrime Auto Finance News, several email newsletters such as Auto Remarketing Today and SubPrime News Update, and conducts national conferences like the National Remarketing Conference, Auto Remarketing Canada and the CPO Forum.

“It’s time to make this change as we prepare for the future,” Smith said on his stepping down as publisher. “This has actually been a transition we have had underway for several years. Bill has done an outstanding job as associate publisher, and now as publisher, he will be responsible for all publication activities. Also, because I will no longer be responsible for news operations, this will free me to pursue other activities within the used-car industry.”

Smith started publishing Auto Remarketing in 1991 as a bi-monthly publication. Today the magazine is considered the leading media source in the used-car industry and is published twice per month with a circulation of approximately 45,000.

“Ron has been and will continue to be a great visionary for the company and a terrific mentor for me personally. Though we’ll miss him around the table at the editorial meetings, I’m confident he’ll find a way to keep us focused on continual improvement,” Zadeits said.

In addition to CAG, Smith’s other business venture includes S&A Cherokee, a full-service communications firm providing public relations services, graphic design, Web development, publishing and event planning. In 2009 and 2010, S&A Cherokee was named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in America. In addition to his role as chairman of CAG, Smith will remain active in the overall operations of S&A Cherokee.

For more information about Auto Remarketing, visit www.autoremarketing.com or call 919-674-6020.