LeasePlan UK has appointed Jo Elms as commercial director.

Elms has worked for LeasePlan for nine years and rose to be brand director of LeasePlan’s SME brand LeasePlanGo (formerly FleetLine) in January 2006 and franchisee brand Network in 2009.

Previously, Elms worked with Ford Motor Company and Nissan with direct responsibility for the leasing and rental business as well as for Polk, supplying automotive data and expertise to vehicle manufacturers.

LeasePlan UK managing director Matt Dyer said: “On behalf of the board I am delighted to announce the appointment of Jo Elms as Commercial Director. Jo's in-depth experience of the financial and automotive sector will help strengthen the board's ability to work with the opportunities and challenges presented by the industry.

“Her record of driving growth in the SME sector and experience driving strategic improvement is an excellent complementary asset for our business.

“Jo is the ideal candidate for the role as we continue to grow - with the customer at the heart of our business. Her experience overseeing significant growth, and with Network representing over 61,000 vehicles in the LPUK portfolio, is testament to that.  It’s also my firm belief that greater representation of women in executive directorships is a signal that LeasePlan UK is ensuring women are progressing through the talent pipeline.”

Elms added: “I am excited to be joining the board at a time when LeasePlan has set our plans for strong UK growth, and look forward to working with our customers and franchisees, leading the Commercial Division and strengthening our position in the market as the leaders in leasing.”