KAR Auction Services executive Peter Kelly has been named president of the company, a newly created position.

In a news release Tuesday, KAR said the new role is, “aimed at aligning KAR’s strategy and execution to streamline operational integrations, enhance product development, and accelerate growth,” and follows years of investments and acquisitions that have significantly (and globally) broadened KAR’s capabilities and footprint.

Kelly will report to KAR chairman and chief executive Jim Hallett.

“Our strategy is advancing rapidly as we position our company for a more global, digital and data-driven future,” Hallett said in a news release.

“I want to fully leverage our recent investments and scale our digital, international and data analytical acquisitions as quickly as possible. Peter’s unique vision, entrepreneurial spirit and deep technology expertise will ensure our businesses continue to innovate and evolve to meet the changing needs of our customers,” Hallett said.

As president, Kelly’s role will be quite extensive, with business units ADESA, AFC, OPENLANE and the KAR remarketing services and digital services group businesses under his direction.

Kelly will also head up strategy and operations of KAR’s data-as-a-service, IT and sales and marketing activities.

“KAR’s core business units are some of the most recognized, trusted and respected brands in the world, and we have a lot of opportunity to expand and enhance our portfolio,” said Kelly. “With a strong foundation of leading technology and a rich pipeline of innovation, we are well positioned to deliver the next-generation of products, services and capabilities. I look forward to leading this evolution for our company and our industry and to helping our customers succeed.”

Kelly has been with KAR since 2011, which is when the company acquired OPENLANE. Kelly was the co-founder, president and CEO of OPENLANE.

His most recent post with KAR was as its president of digital services.

“Peter is a passionate entrepreneur, a seasoned operator and a highly respected thought leader in our industry,” said Hallett. “I am confident he is the right leader to help sustain our people-first, entrepreneurial culture and delight our customers with dedication, service and integrity.”