A PASSIONATE auctioneer at BKB in the Eastern Cape, Vincent Pike, has been awarded the prestigious South African Institute of Auctioneers (SAIA) Auctioneer of the Year award for 2024.
During fierce competition among the country’s top auctioneering professionals in Johannesburg recently, Pike’s unique chant and calling of bids stood out among the rest and it was clear that his well-practiced and perfected style is both entertaining and engaging to coax the highest bids from an audience.
“I love the thrill of the auction process and the adrenaline rush of bidding wars. It’s rewarding to help clients achieve their goals and create a vibrant atmosphere where every bid counts,” he says. His dedication to the craft, combined with a natural flair for public speaking, has made him a standout in the industry.
Pike explains that his decision to enter the SAIA Auctioneer of the Year competition was fuelled by his ongoing desire to challenge himself and showcase his skills. “It was an opportunity to push my limits and elevate my craft. This kind of recognition not only serves as a testament to my hard work but opens doors for growth and networking within the auctioneering community.
“My secret of success has been to stay dedicated to continuous improvement and to build strong relationships in the industry. My dedication is on display every day from the minute I prepare items for sale to the time when I engage with clients and buyers to ensure successful transactions.”
Pike’s work primarily focuses on the livestock sector, where his passion and expertise is unmatched. Operating out of Barkly East in the Eastern Cape province, he has built a reputation for his keen understanding of the market and his ability to connect buyers with the right products. Winning the SAIA Auctioneer of the Year award marks a significant chapter for him, and he hopes that the recognition will further elevate him in the industry and increase his credibility and visibility.
His skilled calling will be a tough act for future auctioneers to follow and his message for any aspiring auctioneers wishing to follow in his footsteps is to practice often and to develop a unique style and chant. Also, to be prepared to learn new things especially how to build strong relationships within the industry and to be prepared to adapt to new challenges.
