Marita Hudson Thomas

Chief Communications Officer

Marita was promoted to Chief Communications Officer for Cars.com Inc (d/b/a Cars Commerce) in June 2020. In this role, she is responsible for the Company’s internal and external communications and events strategy, corporate social responsibility efforts as well as the Editorial strategy for Cars.com. Since joining Cars Commerce in October 2017, Marita has transformed the Company’s communications practice by delivering meaningful campaigns, press and events that drive results and business impact. The Company’s Editorial arm, made up of more than a dozen seasoned automotive journalists, sets the standard for automotive consumer education through digital, video and social content.  

Marita has spent more than 20 years in communications, public relations and reputation management across industries including travel, media and education. She began her career at top PR agencies focusing on clients whose businesses were at an intersection of technology and retail. Prior to joining CARS, she led communications for digital marketplaces Orbitz and Vivid Seats.

Marita is a staunch supporter of mentoring programs in underserved communities and serves as a board member for Polished Pebbles, a non-profit girls mentoring organization. She holds a master’s degree in human services administration from Spertus College and a bachelor’s degree in public relations and English writing from Illinois State University.