Industry jobs: New MD at Toyota and roles filled at Digital Innk, Nexus Vehicle Rental, Fleet Assist and SMP Europe

Scott Thompson named president and MD of Toyota (GB)

Scott Thompson has been named the new president and managing director of Toyota (GB).

He joins the company from Kinto Europe, Toyota’s mobility services business, where he was vice president, mobility.

This followed four years as CEO of Lexus in Australia, his home nation.

He takes up his new position on January 1, 2024, succeeding Agustín Martín.

Martín is leaving Toyota after holding a number of senior positions, including leading Toyota (GB) from October 2020.

Thompson said: “Agustín has been an inspirational leader, successfully promoting new ways of working and closer co-operation between our UK businesses through the ‘One Toyota’ mission.

“I look forward to taking over the reins as we negotiate the challenges and opportunities of the new era of electrified mobility.”

Digital Innk announces senior appointment

Digital Innk has appointed Chris Crow as head of networks and OEM.

He has previously held roles at Fleet Assist, EurotaxGlass’s and Cap HPI. At Digital Innk, he will be responsible for growing the network of suppliers on the company’s ViSN platform and supporting OEMs.

He said: “It’s rare in industry to find a company that brings something new to the table. Digital Innk has developed a platform that drives real efficiencies through greater transparency and better use of technology.

“The fleet sector has witnessed unprecedented change over the last three years and will see more over the next five years with further advancements in vehicle propulsion systems and ownership, along with new entrants coming to the UK.

“There has never been a more fitting moment to join such a fresh and innovative business as Digital Innk.”  

Mohammed Imran, chief operating officer at Digital Innk, said: “It’s great to have Chris on board, and we look forward to him growing the network further.

“Chris brings a wealth of experience to his new role, and we are confident that he can add real value to our OEMs and suppliers.”

Nexus Vehicle Rental appoints new chief tech officer

Nexus Vehicle Rental has appointed Peter Ennis as its new chief technology officer (CTO), to develop Nexus’ product offering into adjacent markets.

From a tech and engineering services background, he has held roles at the BBC, Co-operative Banking, The Hut and Amazon, in which he led several major projects across the business. He joins Nexus from his most recent role as CTO at delivery management platform, Sorted.

In his new role, he will drive critical initiatives focused on enhancing data security through regular audits and upgrading data architecture.

Additionally, he will strategically ensure scalability for Nexus technology solutions, fostering a future-proof landscape aligned with long-term objectives.

Scott Haddow, CEO of Nexus, said: “Having Peter join is a huge boost for Nexus and we know his expertise and skillset will contribute significantly to the continued growth of Nexus.

“His previous roles in some of the biggest tech firms in the world, align perfectly with our aims and ambitions of the growth of Nexus.

“Our technology is at the core of our business, and with the experience and knowledge Peter now brings, our businesses will only thrive.”

Ennis added: “With technology innovation at the forefront of Nexus’ success, I am looking forward to taking on this new opportunity as CTO and believe that Nexus is truly on the verge of something really special.”

Fleet Assist appoints new supply chain director

Fleet Assist has promoted Nikos Kotrozos to the new role of supply chain director from head of all supplier relationships, where he achieved a record year of engagement and performance from its 5,200-strong garage network.

He has been with Fleet Assist for the past 12 months, where he has helped develp the business to meet the needs of customers as they choose to electrify vehicles.

This has included launching a mobile service network of 350 plus mobile technicians in addition to the 5,200 physical garages and a new garage audit service which provides an overview of individual garages based on their capabilities, facilities and services offered.

Fleet Assist MD, Vincent St Claire, said: “The changes have been vast since Nikos joined the company and reflect the skills of our network team in an ever-changing SMR environment.

“We look forward to a busy and productive 2024 where the plan is to continue to innovate in the world of SMR for leasing and rental company fleets and their drivers."

Les Kershaw returns to SMP Europe

Engine management specialist SMP Europe, the home of Intermotor, Lemark and Lucas brands, has announced the appointment of Les Kershaw as sales director.

Kershaw returns to the brand after four years away to head up the sales team, which will involve directing the strategy of the UK and export, as well as building and strengthening customer relationships.

Kershaw brings with him over 20 years’ experience in the industry in various sales roles, including a 12-year stint at SMP Europe as UK sales manager from 2007 to 2020.

He said: “I am delighted to return to SMP Europe as sales director. I look forward to renewing previous relationships and forging new ones in the UK, Europe and beyond.”

Ross Toomey, managing director at SMP Europe, added: “It’s great to have Les back on the sales team to lead from his many years of experience in the sector.

“He already knows our products and a lot of our customers, so is well versed in communicating our quality, value and engineering expertise to the market.”

Kershaw will join the team at the brand’s centre of engineering excellence headquarters in Nottingham, UK, which designs and produces its engine management range of products.