Irvine, CA -- Autobytel Inc., an automotive Internet marketing services company, announced that Michael Hunsche has assumed the position of chief technology officer.

Hunsche brings 20 years of technology and IT leadership to Autobytel, including building and managing high volume e-commerce websites and a wealth of expertise with major technologies across a wide variety of industries. In addition to overseeing Autobytel’s award-winning technology organization, Hunsche will be responsible for improving and scaling the MyRide.com consumer website and audience, as well as innovating and growing the Company’s leading marketing products and services for dealers and manufacturers.

"Michael's leadership in strategic technology planning and execution on a range of projects - from niche projects to multi-million dollar global technology initiatives - combined with his track record of creating a shared vision, makes him an ideal member of the Autobytel team," said Autobytel president and CEO Jim Riesenbach. "Michael's e-commerce background and ability to build and manage high performing IT organizations will be invaluable as we continue our drive to innovate the automotive Internet to the benefit of consumers, auto manufacturers and auto retailers."

Prior to joining Autobytel, Hunsche served as CIO at Arbonne International, a multi-million dollar global network marketing company, where he led the company's efforts to upgrade and stabilize their technology infrastructure, built an organization to position the company for global expansion, and oversaw the launch of e-commerce websites in the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom. Prior to Arbonne, Hunsche held senior technology leadership roles at KinderCare Learning Centers, The Walt Disney Company, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, among others.

"Autobytel has a legacy of breaking new ground in the online automotive industry, offering manufacturers and dealers solutions to increase sales, while at the same time offering consumers a rich and valuable car buying and research experience," said Hunsche. "I am impressed with Autobytel's history, momentum and appetite for real innovation, and I look forward to being a member of this dynamic team."