Cars Commerce Unveils Inducement Awards to Attract New CEO and Boost Growth

December 22, 2025, marked a significant milestone for Cars.com Inc. (NYSE: CARS), operating under the name Cars Commerce Inc., as they announced the granting of performance-based stock unit awards (PSUs) and restricted stock units (RSUs) to their newly appointed CEO-Designate, Tobias Hartmann. This move is part of the company’s strategic initiative under NYSE Listing Rule 303A.08, underscoring its commitment to enhancing leadership and operational efficiency.

Inducement Awards in Detail

Hallmarking its ambition for future growth, Cars Commerce approved the issuance of 155,885 PSUs and 233,827 RSUs to Mr. Hartmann. These inducement awards aim to incentivize their new CEO to achieve specific stock price targets over a performance period, contingent upon his continued employment with the company. The RSUs are designed to vest ratably over three years, aligning Mr. Hartmann's financial incentives with the company's long-term growth targets.

The decision for these grants involved the approval of independent members of Cars Commerce's Board of Directors, emphasizing the transparency and strategic intent behind the decision. This award package not only enhances the appeal of Mr. Hartmann’s position but also aligns his interests with that of shareholders, incentivizing him to drive the company's performance.

Why Inducement Awards?

These inducement awards serve as a pivotal strategy for recruiting top executive talent in the competitive corporate landscape. By offering such incentives, Cars Commerce seeks to attract and retain high-caliber leadership capable of steering the company towards its ambitious goals. The public announcement made under the NYSE's Rule 303A.08 assures transparency and regulatory compliance in the company's operations.

Cars Commerce: A Brief Overview

Cars Commerce stands out as a technology-driven initiative that revolutionizes the automotive industry. Their comprehensive approach simplifies the car buying and selling process through powerful products, solutions, and state-of-the-art AI-driven technologies. The company operates several key brands including its flagship marketplace Cars.com, digital retail solutions from Dealer Inspire, trade-in technology from AccuTrade, wholesale auction services from DealerClub, and exclusive in-market media solutions from the Cars Commerce Media Network.

By leveraging these tools, Cars Commerce aims to enhance not only its operations but also those of its clients, fostering a streamlined retail environment that prioritizes efficiency and profitability. This holistic model positions the company favorably within the automotive sector, as it continuously innovates to meet the dynamic demands of modern consumers.

Conclusion

The induction of Tobias Hartmann as the new CEO signals an exciting chapter for Cars Commerce. With the establishment of performance-linked inducement awards, the company not only underscores its commitment to strategic growth but also emphasizes the importance of aligning leadership interests with overall business performance. As Cars Commerce continues to innovate and adapt in the ever-evolving automotive landscape, it remains poised to elevate both its operational efficacy and market position in the years to come.

For more about Cars Commerce and its initiatives, visit www.carscommerce.inc.