Mark Bassford, the former head of strategic partnerships at Cap HPI, has joined Auto Data Solutions as its new product and innovation director.

He will lead the company’s strategy in supporting dealers to use data and technology more effectively, in a period of rapid change for the industry.

Bassford worked with major automotive organisations ranging from large dealer groups to auction companies and data providers, during his time at Cap HPI, to develop data partnerships and integrations.

His appointment follows a major new partnership for Auto Data Solutions with Autovia, the international media group, whose brands include Auto Express, Car Throttle, Carbuyer, Driver Power, evo, Octane, Vantage, Driving Electric and BuyaCar.

As part of the tie-up, Auto Data Solutions will develop new ways to use the data within Autovia to create consumer and trade facing tools.

John Webb, managing director of demand generation at Autovia, said: "The team at Auto Data Solutions impressed us with their domain expertise in the automotive sector. They bring a huge amount of experience in using data to solve customers' problems and create cross-industry partnerships. Both teams share a passion for moving the industry forward."

Bassford added: "I join Auto Data Solutions at an exciting time in its development. The digital transformation agenda has never been more important to the industry, and we bring unrivalled experience and expertise to help companies navigate the changes. Our work with Autovia, a global leading brand, shows the value of putting innovation at the heart of a business."