MacDonald Departs AutoTrader.ca Amid Acquisition
Portfolio - People | Dec 13, 2024 | Aim Group

Ian MacDonald, Chief Marketing Officer at AutoTrader.ca, announced his departure from the company following its acquisition by Germany's AutoScout24. MacDonald, enjoying two separate tenures at AutoTrader.ca and instrumental in establishing the company as a market leader, shared the closure of this chapter in his career via LinkedIn. The acquisition by AutoScout24 marks a significant transition, involving not just AutoTrader.ca but also other related auto and classifieds brands. MacDonald has outlined his intention to return to the marketing consultancy sector in early 2025 after a personal hiatus to spend time with his family.
Sectors
- Automotive Online Marketplaces
- Marketing and Advertising
Geography
- Canada – AutoTrader.ca is based in Canada, and the article primarily focuses on activities within this region.
- Germany – AutoScout24, the acquiring company, is based in Germany, highlighting an international acquisition transaction.
Industry
- Automotive Online Marketplaces – An industry focusing on the online sale and marketing of cars and automotive goods, relevant due to AutoTrader.ca's role in this sector.
- Marketing and Advertising – Involves strategic efforts to promote goods and services, pertinent here as Ian MacDonald's career has been largely in marketing roles.
Financials
- Not Disclosed – The financial details of AutoScout24's acquisition of Trader Corp., the parent company of AutoTrader.ca, were not disclosed in the article.
Participants
Name | Role | Type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AutoTrader.ca | Target Company | Company | Canada's leading online marketplace for new and used autos. |
AutoScout24 | Bidding Company | Company | Germany-based online automotive marketplace which acquired AutoTrader.ca. |
Ian MacDonald | Outgoing CMO | Person | Former Chief Marketing Officer of AutoTrader.ca with a career spanning over two terms at the company. |