A recognized leader at the intersection of auctioneering and innovation, John Schultz has dedicated over 25 years to advancing the profession. He serves as Partner and Chief Marketing & Technology Officer at Grafe Auction, a nationwide leader in commercial and industrial equipment auctions. He previously served as the 76th President of the National Auction Association (2024–2025) and as Chairman of the Board (2025–2026).

John’s journey began in 1992 at his grandfather’s estate auction—a formative moment that sparked a lifelong commitment to the auction industry. Since then, he has helped lead Grafe Auction through a full digital transformation, now conducting more than 300 online auctions annually across the retail, hospitality, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors.

A firm believer in professional development and service to others, John is a lead instructor for the Auction Marketing Management (AMM) designation and a graduate of the Certified Auctioneers Institute (CAI). His contributions have been recognized with the Pat Massart Leadership Award, the NAA President’s Award of Distinction, and the Golden Gavel Award from the Minnesota State Auctioneers Association. He also previously served as the 60th President of the Minnesota State Auctioneers Association.

Based in Grand Meadow, Minnesota, with his wife Billie Jo and daughter Anna Claire, John is driven by a core mission: to empower others through leadership, education, and meaningful innovation.