Mark Roden will succeed Nick Poraj-Wilczinski who will become chairman of the group.

Roden joins Westlands having worked for Toyota (GB) for the past 15 years. During that period he has occupied a range of senior positions heading up franchising for Toyota in the UK, national sales operations, marketing and strategy for Toyota's sister brand Lexus and most recently running Fleet operations for both brands.

Roden said: "I am delighted to be joining the Westlands Group and to have the opportunity to work with Nick and the team. Living in the area, I know how highly the group is regarded. The business' success is founded on its absolute belief in customer service and an unwavering commitment to the local communities in which it operates and I am committed to maintaining and if possible, enhancing our local reputation."

Poraj-Wilczinski added: "I am very pleased to have secured the services of such a senior figure from within the Toyota organisation. Mark's considerable experience at the highest levels within the industry adds significant experience to the senior management team and puts us in an excellent position to develop the Westlands Group further."

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