Fleet CV: Phil Robson, director of fleet and used vehicle operations, Peugeot Motor Company

What does your role entail?

All fleet sales, including our wholly-owned leasing operation, Peugeot Contract Hire, and the disposal of used vehicles generated by Peugeot in the UK.

What is your background?

I have worked for Peugeot for 12 years in a variety of roles, including van sales, district sales management, distribution, dealer standards programmes, used vehicle operations and as general manager in two dealerships.

I previously worked at Coca-Cola Schweppes.

What skills are needed for your role?

Tenacity, resilience, belief and optimism helps in the short term, balanced by an ability to take a strategic view to the direction and trends of the market, communication skills and the ability to embrace change and not feel threatened by it.

Have you had any specific training?

My previous two roles in Peugeot have best prepared me for my current role, firstly running used vehicle operations but most importantly the broad operation of running successful dealerships.

How is the current economic climate affecting you?

With our fleet product line up and financial position we feel 2009 will be a year of opportunity for Peugeot to re-assert itself in the fleet market.

What would be your dream job?

In my younger years it would have been playing for Newcastle United but I guess my time has passed, so I would now be dreaming of being the manager.