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IRVINE, Calif. — Autobytel said Wednesday that it has appointed a new executive vice president of product, marketing and analytics.

Moving into the post is Jim Helberg, who comes aboard from PHD, where he was executive vice president. In that role, he headed the development and execution of Chrysler's media operations.

For his new role with Autobytel, Helberg's responsibilities include leading all the company's Web products in addition to consumer and trade marketing activities. Included in that is advertising, ad sales and public relations.

Moreover, he is expected to be a leader in helping Autobytel to refocus its flagship brand, while also heading up its analytics practice, including building upon its database products.

"Jim's highly regarded reputation in the auto industry, and beyond — as well as his proven leadership at the helm of successful marketing programs for world-class brands such as Honda, Toyota and Chrysler — will serve us well as we further invigorate our mission of providing in-market car-buyers with the best available online experience, and OEMs and dealers with the tools to sell more cars, more cost-efficiently," stated Autobytel president and chief executive officer Jeff Coats. 

"Jim's strategic insights into consumer behavior, coupled with his hands-on experience literally at the forefront of some of our industry's most critical media evolutions, will be of great significance as we focus on further increasing the value we provide to our customers," he added.

Looking at Helberg's experience in more detail, he also worked as executive client communications director at OMD. In that post, he led all media planning and buying functions for Nissan North America.

As media director for Saatchi & Saatchi/Los Angeles, his duties included heading up Toyota Motor Sales' national media planning and buying.

Helberg's experience also includes an executive corporate marketing post at Time Inc./Time Warner. In that capacity, he oversaw the company's cross-platform development and execution in the western U.S.

Other posts include stints with such companies Time magazine, Grey Advertising, Foote, Cone and Belding, and Rubin Postaer and Associates.

"I am excited to be joining one of the true pioneers of our industry as it reclaims its legacy of leadership in providing unique value to consumers, dealers and OEMs throughout the car-shopping, purchasing and ownership experience," Helberg stated.

"Autobytel is well-positioned to deliver on the goals it has set, including a renewed focus on leveraging its rich and unparalleled database of consumer automotive behavior," he continued. "I'm looking forward to joining the company's talented and energetic team of automotive marketing innovators to develop cutting-edge marketing and data solutions, all focused on helping OEMs and dealers sell more cars."