BVRLA chief executive Gerry Keaney to retire

After 11 years as chief executive of the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA), Gerry Keaney has announced he is retiring, stepping down from his role at the end of 2024.

Under his tenure, annual revenues have increased more than threefold, while membership numbers have expanded by over 50% to more than 1,000 organisations.

A particular success during Keaney’s tenure has been in the leasing broker sector, with more than 320 members and with an industry leading compliance programme.

Jon Lawes, BVRLA chair, said: “Under Gerry’s leadership, the BVRLA has been transformed. The association looks very different to a decade ago, its professionalism and value delivered to members have increased immeasurably.

“Coupled with exceptional growth, the BVRLA has continued to extend its influence in Westminster. Our voice is consistent and more credible than ever.”

He added: “Gerry will undoubtedly leave the association in a stronger position, and we must now identify a suitable successor to lead the organisation and support members with the challenges ahead.”

Keaney has helped guide the industry through defining moments including Brexit, the Covid pandemic and terrorist attacks involving rental vehicles.

Zero percent benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax rates for electric vehicles (EVs) were secured in 2020, before additional credits for car clubs and vehicles for disability use were introduced with the ZEV mandate in 2024.

Other achievements during Keaney’s tenure include the extension of the plug-in van grant, protections for members around access rights for connected car data, and working with the Department for Transport (DfT) to establish the Rental Vehicle Security Scheme (RVSS).

Keaney said: “I have been fortunate to work with some of the most passionate, knowledgeable and ambitious people our sector has to offer.

“The BVRLA’s performance over the last decade has been nothing short of exceptional. It has been a privilege to lead the team that makes it happen, backed by an army of supportive members, industry colleagues and a very engaged board of directors.

“Together, we have transformed what the BVRLA stands for and the role our industry has with government, regulators and consumers.”

Prior to joining the BVRLA, Keaney spent nine years as a member of Volvo’s management board as senior vice president of marketing, sales and service.