Soklis Named President of Cox Automotive Canada

In this newly-formed role, Soklis will lead the development and execution of the company's strategy and operations

ATLANTA, May 19, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Cox Automotive is announcing a new addition to its executive leadership team. Maria Soklis has been named to the newly-created role of President, Cox Automotive Canada. In this position, Soklis will lead the development and execution of Cox Automotive's Canadian business strategy and operations. Soklis will report to Joe George, senior vice president of Cox Automotive Strategy.

"Maria is a very talented executive who brings a pioneering spirit and deep industry knowledge to our team," George said. "We're thrilled to have her join us, and welcome her vision as we deepen and expand our Canadian presence."

Prior to joining Cox Automotive, Soklis was vice president and chief operating officer of Kia Canada. During her tenure the company experienced significant growth, and she cultivated a strong professional relationship with the dealer network based on transparency and integrity. Soklis also established Kia Canada's corporate social responsibility platform and was the driving force behind Kia Canada's 'Drive Change' campaign. She's actively engaged with many automotive industry and women's professional organizations across Canada, with past speaking engagements at the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association and CADEX dealer summit events, among many others.

"Joining Cox Automotive is an exhilarating new challenge for me, and I'm looking forward to helping the company achieve a strong leadership position in the Canadian market," Soklis said.

Soklis will be based at the Cox Automotive Canada headquarters in Mississauga, Ontario. Six Cox Automotive businesses operate in Canada including Manheim, vAuto, NextGear Capitol, HomeNet, VinSolutions and XTime.

About Cox Automotive
Cox Automotive is a leading provider of vehicle remarketing services and digital marketing and software solutions for automotive dealers and consumers. Cox Automotive, a subsidiary of Atlanta-based Cox Enterprises, includes Manheim, Autotrader, Kelley Blue Book, vAuto, NextGear Capital, and a host of global businesses and brands serving customers such as auto dealers, manufacturers and financial institutions. Headquartered in Atlanta, Cox Automotive employs nearly 24,000 employees in over 150 locations worldwide. The company partners with more than 40,000 dealers, as well as most major automobile manufacturers, and touches over 67 percent of all car buyers in the U.S. with the most recognized brands in the industry. Cox Automotive unites more than 20 brands in this space, providing an end-to-end solution to transform the way people buy and sell cars every day.

SOURCE Cox Automotive