International Auto Holdings Restricted (GAHL) has appointed former Volkswagen Group UK MD Alex Smith to the function of Chair of Lookers.
Smith joins GAHL following six years as MD of Volkswagen Group UK the place he was chargeable for a couple of in each 5 new vehicles and light-weight industrial autos offered nationwide. Beforehand, Smith served as Vice President of the Society of Motor Producers and Merchants (SMMT) and MD of Nissan Motor Nice Britain.
He mentioned: “In an trade experiencing profound change and simultaneous alternative, I’m completely delighted to hitch International Auto Holdings to work with devoted and skilled management groups with demonstrable observe information in retail, automotive and monetary providers to drive the Group’s development ambitions within the UK and Europe.
“I’m especially excited by the talent depth across the Group and by the strength of the brands which GAHL proudly represents. I look forward to working with every colleague to deliver for our OEM partners and customers in this transformative period for us all.”
Smith joins MD James Brearley in main Lookers together with the just lately appointed new government group chargeable for persevering with the transformation that has been going down since Lookers was acquired by GAHL in 2023. Each have additionally been appointed to GAHL’s International Government Committee.
A spokesperson for GAHL mentioned: “The Lookers group, led by James Brearley, has made important progress in remodeling the enterprise right into a buyer centric, excessive performing auto retailer that strives to be a powerful accomplice to our respective producer stakeholders and clients.
“We’re extraordinarily happy so as to add somebody of Alex’s calibre to the Lookers management group. We consider his deep automotive experience, observe report of trade main outcomes and general strategic capabilities will vastly profit each Lookers in addition to GAHL’s European operations as we proceed to pursue operational excellence and development.
“Alex’s appointment to Chair of Lookers completes the first phase of the transformation of Lookers that began with our acquisition of the business in 2023. We are extremely confident that the newly constituted executive team will continue to prioritize our customers and OEM partner relationships while also driving sustainable growth in the business moving forward.”
