Cars.com Welcomes Sarah Kettler as Chief Marketing Officer
In a significant move for the car-shopping platform, Cars.com Inc. (NYSE: CARS) has announced the appointment of Sarah Kettler as their new Chief Marketing Officer, effective June 15, 2026. Bringing a wealth of experience from prior roles in the marketplace arena, Kettler's leadership is expected to transform the company's marketing strategies and enhance overall growth.
A Proven Leader in Marketplace Dynamics
Kettler joins Cars.com after a decade at SeatGeek, where she held the position of Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications. During her tenure, she successfully developed a performance marketing strategy that not only doubled brand awareness but also positioned SeatGeek as a leader in the ticketing technology space. Her ability to integrate marketing efforts across platforms has been recognized as a pivotal factor in sustaining growth within a highly competitive market.
Prior to her role at SeatGeek, Kettler gained valuable insights working in strategy and communications at prominent firms like WME-IMG and Deloitte Consulting. This diverse background equips her with the tools necessary to drive Cars.com towards its ambitious goals.
Strategic Goals and Vision for the Future
According to Tobi Hartmann, CEO of Cars.com, Kettler's experience in driving marketplace brands and understanding customer dynamics positions her perfectly for this role. Hartmann stated, "Sarah brings exactly the kind of experience we need at this moment. She's built and positioned marketplace brands, and knows how to translate brand strategy into real business growth."
In her new role, Kettler will lead the integrated marketing and communications department. Her focus will be on fortifying the brand's presence, fostering engagement with customers, and driving the company's long-term strategic objectives. She is excited to leverage advancing technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, to further enhance customer experiences while guiding dealers and OEMs towards efficient growth.
Industry Transformation Through Innovation
Kettler recognizes the transformative potential of technology in the automotive marketplace. "The opportunity to join Cars.com at this inflection point is incredibly compelling," she remarked. As the industry rapidly evolves due to AI and other technological advancements, she sees the opportunity to enhance the brand’s offerings while maintaining a robust foundation for positive user experiences.
Cars.com is currently known for its data-driven technology platform that streamlines the process of buying and selling vehicles. The company’s flagship platform connects millions of potential car buyers with dealerships across the United States. By equipping users with AI-driven shopping tools and extensive vehicle reviews, Cars.com aims to redefine the car buying journey.
With Kettler at the helm as CMO, there are high expectations for her to drive Cars.com’s marketing endeavors into a new era. Her comprehensive experience and strategic vision are anticipated to play a crucial role in solidifying Cars.com’s reputation as a trusted marketplace where consumers feel confident and empowered in their purchasing decisions. As the company embarks on this exciting chapter, stakeholders will be closely watching how Kettler’s leadership translates into tangible results for the brand.
For more information about Cars.com and its innovative solutions, visit their official website.
Cars.com is committed to advancing the automotive shopping experience, and Kettler’s appointment is a testament to that commitment. With the right leadership in place, Cars.com is set to reach new heights in the automotive marketplace, ensuring that customers and dealers alike benefit from an enhanced and engaging platform.