SMMT announces new vice presidents

SMMT has announced the appointment of Tim Abbott, managing director, BMW UK; Ralf Speth, CEO, Jaguar Land Rover and Robin Woolcock, managing director, Volkswagen Group (UK) as Vice Presidents of the Society, joining existing Vice Presidents John Neill CBE, chief executive and deputy chairman, Unipart Group and Bill Parfitt CBE, chairman and managing director, GM UK.

Commenting on the new appointments, SMMT president, Nigel Stein, CEO GKN Driveline, said, “This is an important time for the UK automotive sector as it continues to lead economic recovery, attract inward investment, develop new ultra-low carbon technology and manufacture products for global export. Our challenge is to ensure government focus remains fixed on sustaining growth, rebalancing the economy and strengthening UK business and consumer confidence. Automotive is a sector with incredible growth potential and I am delighted that our new Vice Presidents have committed to supporting SMMT in its efforts to maximise the opportunities for all its members.”

Tim Abbott, managing director, BMW UK said; “I am delighted to take up this post at such a fascinating time in the history of our industry. Never has this business been more dynamic or changing so fast and I know that everybody at the SMMT relishes tackling the challenges ahead.”

Ralf Speth, CEO, Jaguar Land Rover said; “Automotive R&D and advanced manufacturing is one of the UK’s leading export industries making this an important and exciting period as our sector leads economic growth. I am delighted with this appointment and look forward to working with the SMMT to help shape the future of the UK motor industry.”

Robin Woolcock, managing director, Volkswagen Group (UK) said; “This appointment as a Vice President of SMMT is a great honour for me personally and for the Volkswagen Group as the largest supplier of cars and light commercials to the UK market. Having already been a member of the SMMT Board for 12 years, I hope I can use this experience to help guide the SMMT into the future.”

SMMT Vice Presidents are selected from the executive board by the president to support him, and the deputy president, currently Joe Greenwell, chairman, Ford of Britain, in overseeing the strategic direction of the Society’s work.