CARY, N.C. -

Cox Automotive leveraged several executives to finalize its $4 billion acquisition of Dealertrack Technologies last fall. Tish Harrison was one of them.

“I am most proud of my work with the Cox Automotive deal team for the Dealertrack acquisition. As a result of my involvement, I worked alongside some extremely talented people,” Harrison said.

“It was one of those rare chances to be a part of something that would have a huge impact on the industry as well as a historic moment for Cox Automotive and Cox Enterprises — the largest transaction in company history,” she continued. “It was one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences in my career, and certainly one that I’ll never forget.”

Now about a year after the deal closed, Harrison leads an internal, six-member market consulting team supporting the Inventory Solutions business within Cox Automotive. That group is responsible for performing business analyses and identifying market opportunities where “we serve up insights impacting the development of marketing, sales and operations strategies that support the company’s business objectives and growth initiatives,” according to Harrison.

Being a part of multi-billion dollar deals isn’t the only subject Harrison finds intriguing and rewarding.

“As far back as I can remember, I’ve always loved cars,” Harrison said. “During road trips with my family, I’d entertain myself by guessing the model year of cars based on the trim, wheels, etc. (I am an only child and had to get creative about passing the time).

“What I love most about the industry is how it greatly contributes to the overall global economy and provides a mean for so many people to provide for their families,” she continued. “I also enjoy watching the business transform at such a rapid pace.”

And speaking of family, Harrison mentioned she admires her mother, touching on the reason why.

“She is a nurse who was (and still is) an awe-inspiring image of excellence and work ethic,” Harrison said.

“I also admire all of the women in the business that have broken down barriers and reached new professional heights,” she went on to say. “It is encouraging to see so many women in various leadership roles in numerous companies throughout the industry.”  

Tish Harrison, 35, is director, market consulting with Cox Automotive.

View entire list of 40 Under 40 honorees.