Kruse International Promotions and New Hires

February 11, 2003						  		  (800) 968-4444 ext. 254

Auburn, IN-Kruse International, the world's largest collector car auction company, has announced a series of promotions and new hires.  

The changes in the company's structure are a result of founder and CEO Dean Kruse purchasing the company back from eBay in December 2002.  Kruse originally sold the company to eBay in 1999.  

"I feel confident that I've assembled the best management team in the industry.  The majority of these employees have been with the company for many years, and it's as much a part of their families as it is mine," Kruse said.

Jeff Doner has been named Senior Vice President and the new Chief Operating Officer of Kruse International.  Most recently, Jeff was the company's Real Estate Director but has served in many other capacities during his 16 years with Kruse.

John Pifer, formerly the company's Controller, has been promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Kruse Enterprises.  John will be reporting directly to Dean and be responsible for not only Kruse International's financial reporting but all of Dean's companies.  

Chris Neuhouser, formerly the Internet Manager, has been promoted to Vice President of Marketing.  Chris has been with the company for over 12 years. 

Brent Earlywine has been named Vice President of Business Development.  He formerly served as the company's National Sales Manager and Chief Auctioneer.  Brent has been with Kruse for over 16 years.  He will continue to be a mainstay on the auction block as one of Kruse's chief auctioneers. 

Karen Barnett has been promoted from Marketing Manager to Vice President of Customer Service.  Karen's knowledge of the business and relationships with the core Kruse customer base made her an easy selection for this new position with Kruse.

Stephanny Hartzell has been hired as Vice President of Public Relations. She formerly served in key roles on the political staffs of Congressman Mark Souder (R-IN3) and Congressman Chris Chocola (R-IN2).

"As a team, we're going to build on our company's strengths, and Kruse International will continue to show its clients and buyers why we're the world's largest auctioneer of collector cars," Kruse said.