IronPlanet, a leading online auction company for used construction and agricultural equipment, recently appointed Tom Cornell to the position of managing director of IronPlanet Europe. Cornell will be responsible for leading IronPlanet’s expansion into the European marketplace.

“Tom has had a very successful career in the global construction equipment market and has a solid track record of developing sound operational strategies for new ventures,” said Jeff Jeter, IronPlanet senior vice president for international and new business. “Tom’s experience in developing new distribution channels and growing supplier relationships in the construction equipment industry makes him the ideal candidate to launch IronPlanet’s auction marketplace in Europe.”

Prior to joining IronPlanet, Cornell was with JCB for more than 12 years and held positions in product, marketing and general management. Cornell was general manager of JCB do Brasil Ltda., where he launched JCB’s first overseas production facility in a non-English-speaking country. Cornell also served as the managing director for JCB Construction Machinery Co. Ltd. in Shanghai.

“I am excited to be joining IronPlanet at a time when their online auction marketplace is gaining global acceptance,” Cornell said. “Our expansion into Europe coincides with OEMs, dealers, rental companies and contractors that are searching for a partner to assist in the disposition of used construction equipment.

“IronPlanet’s ability to drive more than 14,000 visitors to an auction gives our customers a global marketplace of buyers, which translates to equipment sales at or above market prices. This price performance combined with our low selling costs and quick time to market have generated significant interest in the European market. I’m excited to continue building on IronPlanet’s momentum and look forward to establishing this auction model in Europe.”

Pleasanton, Calif.-basedIronPlanet is an international online auction company for used construction and agricultural equipment. IronPlanet is backed by Accel Partners, Kleiner Perkins Caufield and Byers, Caterpillar, Komatsu and Volvo.