ATLANTA –

Cox Automotive has brought its Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader properties under one leadership structure headed up by Jared Rowe, who is now president of Cox Automotive Media Division.

The company shared a statement Tuesday explaining the new alignment.

Rowe, who will report directly to Cox Automotive president Sandy Schwartz, had led Autotrader and KBB, respectively, in his prior two posts.

He was named president of Autotrader in August 2014, after serving two years in the same role at KBB.

“This new structure will drive growth by enabling us to optimize our product set for our dealer and OEM customers and to drive traffic across sites in a way that best addresses the needs of our consumers,” Schwartz said. “Jared has exactly the leadership, understanding, passion and experience we need to lead media at this critical point in the formation of Cox Automotive.”

The company noted in its announcement that the move is meant as a “growth opportunity for both companies and not a cost-cutting initiative.”

Rowe added: “Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book are naturally complimentary. By aligning the businesses against this principle, we can grow both brands while respecting each company’s unique position in the marketplace.

“We will leverage a larger pool of resources, our best collective thinking and an aligned strategic approach to deliver enhanced solutions for our customers and a better shopping experience for consumers.”