Meet Shawn Smith: Nine Years of Versatility and Excellence at Grafe Auction
Meet Shawn Smith, one of our most versatile team members and a cornerstone of Grafe Auction's logistics operations. With nearly a decade of experience at Grafe Auction, Shawn has become someone who can step into any role and excel. From conducting pre-auction site surveys to coordinating complex removals, Shawn's adaptability and dedication have made him an essential part of our success.
As a key member of our setup team, Shawn transforms auction sites from initial chaos into organized, efficient events that serve both sellers and buyers. His diverse professional background brings a unique perspective to the auction world, and his approach to every challenge is marked by enthusiasm and professionalism. Shawn's work spans everything from organizing and staging items to establishing the flow that makes each auction run seamlessly.
Today, we're excited to share Shawn's journey at Grafe Auction, from his most memorable projects to his insights about what makes the auction industry such a special community.
Your Journey at Grafe Auction
1. What's your favorite part about working at Grafe Auction and how long have you worked for us?
My favorite part is working with such an amazing team. I've been with Grafe Auction for 9 & 1/2 years.
2. What's a project or auction you worked on that stands out in your mind? Tell us about it.
A project that stands out is Arlington Rack Track. I was there every week for almost 6 months. During that time I tagged and cataloged over 22,000 lots of various items from expensive 1 of kind artwork, exclusive Turf Club items to mile markers on the track. It was the most engaged process I've been a part of. From dealing with the President of the track to coordinate next steps to loading buyers.
3. Could you walk us through what you do at Grafe Auction?
My main jobs is I'm a part of our set up team. However I feel I'm a "Utility player". I've conducted pre-auction site surveys, booked sales, post-auction removals, made calls to collect money and answered customer calls. I help where ever I can, whenever I can. My main component is setting up an auction. The first phase of it is organizing and staging the items. Then I take marketing videos and photos for our marketing staff. Next is establishing a "flow" for our auction. We like everything to go in a coordinated order easy for the buyer and removal teams to find items. Then it's onto tagging the auction. Starting with lot 1 I follow the established flow until the last asset is tagged. From there we start forming a catalog. For each lot in the auction we do a description and photos of each item. Lastly we put up an auction banner on the front of the building and head to our next project.
Getting to Know You
4. What did you do before joining Grafe Auction?
I had my own business as a carpenter. Prior to that I was GM at a national restaurant chain. I also worked for several promotional marketing company's in numerous capacities.
5. What's something that surprised you about the auction industry?
I couldn't believe what tight knit community it was. Everyone is always willing to help each other.
Your Life Outside Work
6. What's your ideal weekend?
Coffee and breakfast with my wife, a morning workout then working on our house and yard. I'm a busy body and are always busy doing something.
7. Do you have any hobbies or interests that might surprise people?
My #1 hobby is working out, after that it's doing something on my house/yard to improve it. I have an interest in collecting old coins. I have a pretty extensive collection.
Auction Insights
8. What's the most memorable item or auction you've been involved with?
I can answer both...memorable is watching Judd at a live auction. He's so amazing with crowd and a master of his craft. Item, there's been so many. Arlington Race Track was the most memorable by far. In general I love working on complicated and challenging projects.
9. What's one thing you wish people knew about auctions?
That it's truly a professional service that sells quality assets. So many people thinks it's just "Uncle Bill" talking fast selling random inexpensive items.
Shawn's story perfectly captures what makes Grafe Auction special – dedicated professionals who bring diverse backgrounds and unwavering commitment to every project. His journey from carpenter to auction logistics expert demonstrates how the auction industry attracts people who appreciate craftsmanship, attention to detail, and genuine service.
Whether he's spending six months cataloging over 22,000 lots at Arlington Race Track or jumping in to help wherever needed, Shawn embodies the collaborative spirit that defines our team. His appreciation for the auction industry's tight-knit community and professional standards reflects the values we hold dear at Grafe Auction.
As Shawn continues to tackle challenging projects and help transform auction sites across the country, his versatility and dedication ensure that every Grafe Auction event runs smoothly. We're proud to have team members like Shawn who understand that behind every successful auction is meticulous planning, expert execution, and a genuine commitment to serving our clients.
Stay tuned for more team spotlights as we continue to introduce you to the remarkable people who make Grafe Auction the trusted partner for commercial and industrial asset liquidations nationwide.