AutoTrader is charging ahead in the fast-moving world of digital change, led by tech-savvy CEO Nathan Coe. The company turned its back on printed magazines in 2013, transforming into a full-blown digital marketplace for buying and selling cars.
Nathan’s journey in tech began in the early 2000s during the internet boom. He entered the scene through mergers and acquisitions, but building tech solutions fueled his passion. “I’ve always been drawn to technology,” he shared with Computer Weekly. When he joined AutoTrader, about 60% of the revenue still came from magazines. A pivotal shift happened in 2007 when investors prompted a digital focus, leading to the last magazine issue in 2013.
This digital transformation didn’t happen overnight. AutoTrader gradually rolled out mobile platforms, a data business, and tools for other companies in the automotive sector. “These elements all coexist,” Nathan noted, emphasizing how they enrich the overall digital ecosystem. Today, the tech team makes up about a third of AutoTrader’s workforce of 1,200, consisting of engineers, designers, product experts, and data scientists.
The website attracts around 1.6 million visitors daily, who collectively spend 500 million minutes a month browsing. Nathan mentioned, “There are 30,000 retailers using our platform, and the inventory of 440,000 cars changes daily.” With over 1,000 software updates each week, the IT staff operates in an agile environment that allows for rapid, reliable software delivery.
Unlike many firms, AutoTrader opts not to outsource its IT. Nathan explained, “We want our own people—staff who embody our culture and values.” The bulk of the tech team works out of Manchester, with a smaller office in London. Recruitment focuses on early-career talent. “We pay well, but we offer much more than just a salary,” he stated.
AutoTrader is also creating pathways for partners in the automotive space to leverage its technology. Through its API, garages, lenders, and insurers tap into its platform. The “digital retailing” initiative is a significant project aimed at empowering smaller firms with advanced tech solutions.
As AutoTrader addresses its customers’ needs, it also confronts challenges suited for AI. With 440,000 unique cars that constantly shift, AI is essential for value assessment and sales predictions. “It’s a perfect problem for AI to tackle,” Nathan explained, highlighting their ongoing commitment to advanced data science capabilities.
AutoTrader has been applying AI for a decade, particularly machine learning, to help car dealers understand their inventory’s unique characteristics and market dynamics. “We’re focused on enhancing their ability to sell effectively,” he added.