Craig Fraser Replaces Paul Barlow as Carsales MD

Portfolio - People | Mar 27, 2025 | Aim Group

Craig Fraser Replaces Paul Barlow as Carsales MD

Paul Barlow, the former managing director of Carsales, Australia's leading auto site, has left the company after over 15 years. He is succeeded by Craig Fraser, who previously led the dealer sales team. Barlow was instrumental in Carsales' international expansion, leading ventures into Latin America, South Korea, and the U.S., marked by the acquisition of Trader Interactive in 2021. In 2022, he became the MD of Carsales, taking over the Australian operations after Ajay Bhatia's departure. Car Group, the parent company, has not commented on Barlow's exit but acknowledged his significant contributions. Craig Fraser, who joined Carsales as a sales director in 2008 and later became GM of automotive, corporate, industry, and leisure, is recognized for his strategic leadership and deep understanding of the company's operations. The leadership transition is seen as a move towards fostering growth and innovation under Fraser's stewardship.

Sectors

  • Automotive
  • E-commerce

Geography

  • Australia – Carsales is the No.1 auto site in Australia, making this geography central to the article's context.
  • Latin America, South Korea, United States – These regions were part of Carsales' international expansion efforts under Paul Barlow's leadership.

Industry

  • Automotive – Carsales is the leading automotive website in Australia, focusing on buying and selling vehicles.
  • E-commerce – As a digital platform, Carsales facilitates online transactions and listings for automobiles, embodying e-commerce elements.

Financials

    Participants

    NameRoleTypeDescription
    CarsalesTarget companyCompanyAustralia's leading online auto site.
    Paul BarlowFormer Managing DirectorPersonLed international expansion efforts; former MD of Carsales.
    Craig FraserCurrent Managing DirectorPersonFormerly led dealer sales team; new MD of Carsales.
    Car GroupParent CompanyCompanyParent company of Carsales, involved in strategic decisions.