TradePending, a sales enablement and consumer experience software platform for car dealerships, has hired Madhu Kota as chief technology officer.

TradePending is backed by Capstreet, a Houston-based lower middle market private equity firm.

“Madhu has an impressive background in software product development, professional services, consulting and executive management,” TradePending CEO Brice Englert said.

“As a software platform, it’s critical that TradePending provide its customers with innovative solutions that continually evolve with their changing needs. We’re confident that Madhu, who speaks the language of both tech and business, will help as we seek to elevate our products as well as our entire technology team.”

Kota has 25 years of experience in IT, beginning as a software engineer and rising through the ranks to serve in various senior technology leadership positions. Most recently, he served as CTO and head of research and development for Riskonnect.

“Madhu has hands-on expertise across multiple applications and is well versed in the latest AI and cybersecurity developments, which we believe will be an asset to TradePending as the company continues to expand its solutions,” said Rick Pleczko, CEO of Capstreet Operating Executive Group and executive chairman of TradePending. “We will look to leverage his experience working for both startups and established companies, as well as PE-backed firms, as we identify new avenues for growth.”