Industry jobs: Roles filled at City Auction Group, B-On, Synergy, ATS Euromaster, Midlands Connect and Warrantywise

City Auction Group appoints new digital director

City Auction Group has named Ian Smith as its new group digital director to strengthen its offering.

Formerly the operations director of Engineius, Smith led the large-scale growth of the automotive logistics business, including the expansion of the supplier network and customer movements.

Before joining Engineius, he was part of the founding direct-to-consumer team at Oodle Car Finance, where his role included supporting the product development team across the app and web, but also establishing the sales and operations teams.

In his new role at City Auction Group, he will focus on the further development of the group’s digital proposition, including the existing systems and technology, but also new product offerings. 

He will also focus on the development and growth of the firm’s LCV position.

He said: “The group has achieved so much already, and we have only maximised 65% of what is possible in my opinion. With the development of our digital roadmap and product lines I truly believe we can create the leading remarketing solution in the UK.”

Michael Tomalin, CEO of City Auction Group, added: “Ian will enable us to manoeuvre the business into a new sphere incorporating a fast-track digital journey alongside an advanced technical roadmap to include the growth of the LCV proposition in the marketplace. 

“Together, we will be launching some exciting developments and market leading propositions for our valued corporate vendors and buyer partners.”

B-On appoints former Nissan executive as chief commercial officer

B–On has appointed Nicolas Tschann as chief commercial officer (CCO) to spearhead a series of ride and drive events.

Tschann was recently head of light commercial vehicles (LCVs) at Nissan and joins the company as it expands its European footprint to new markets with its line-up of productive vehicles and tools.

A French native, he has built a career spanning more than two decades as a global automotive executive with key roles in marketing, sales, network development, product definition, and product launch.

He joins B–On following the company’s strategic partnership with automaker Chery, which includes a joint venture for the development, production and sale of high-quality, low-cost electric commercial vehicles.

“Nicolas’ global experience, including ties to both Europe and China, will make him a huge asset to us as we continue to scale our business,” said Bruno Lambert, CEO and co-founder of B–On.

ATS Euromaster names Chris Milligan as new head of key accounts

Chris Milligan has been appointed by ATS Euromaster to manage strategic relationships with key accounts as well as sourcing, maintaining and expanding relationships with clients, and ensuring they receive a high-quality service.

He joins having worked in sales and marketing in B2B and B2C roles within the automotive, industrial lubricants, and bitumen sectors.

Previously, he held the position of head of commercial at Total Energies where he was responsible for their bitumen business in the UK.

He also worked to secure key accounts and delivered high-impact digital transformation as well as enhancing operational efficiency and customer engagement.

Jason Chamberlain, commercial director at ATS Euromaster, said: “Chris is an MBA-qualified sales and marketing senior leader with 25 years of experience.

“He has proven, repeatedly, that he can manage multiple clients whilst maintaining a high level of service; can delegate and manage assignments; and keep strategic account plans on track. All of this makes him ideal for this role and we are delighted Chris has joined the ATS team.”

Milligan added: “I have vast experience in sales and marketing, which I will bring into this role, and am looking forward to the challenge. I thrive on building and maintaining successful client relationships, and this will be key to adding value and growing the ATS customer base.”

Synergy appoints new finance director

Synergy has appointed Adam Whiteley as finance director to help drive growth at the business.

With 20 years of working in the finance sector in the chemical and automotive industries, his appointment comes as Synergy prepares to expand its van leasing service and launch a self-serve online portal that will help SMEs implement and administer electric and hybrid car salary sacrifice schemes more easily.

He said: “I couldn’t be more excited to join Synergy as there are so many opportunities we can grasp and areas we can work on that will help the company continue to grow.

“Throughout my career, I have sought out the chance to build new skills and develop. This is my first finance director role, and I am looking forward to using everything I have learned to help support Synergy at this exciting time.”

Managing director, Will Voisey, added: “Adam’s background and expertise will help open up new avenues for the company while we continue to deliver excellent customer service and help businesses of all sizes with their vehicle leasing needs. I am confident that he will play a central role in our continued success.”

Synergy was founded in 2006 and sold to investment firm, Newable, at the end of 2023.

Midlands Connect hires new senior director to strengthen its strategic leadership 

Midlands Connect has appointed Mike Bull as programme director to oversee the organisation’s flagship projects and research.

Having previously worked in transport across road and rail, he specialises in developing analysis and insight into priorities for investment. 

He will take a pivotal role in progressing a wide-ranging programme which also focuses on new technologies and innovation—including EV charging and alternative fuels provision.

He joins Midlands Connect at a crucial time for the sub-national transport body, after a three-year-stint at HS2.

Maria Machancoses, chief executive of Midlands Connect, said: “I'm pleased to welcome Mike to the team and look forward to working with him and driving forward our ambitious programme.”

Prior to joining HS2 Ltd, Mike led the development and delivery of the smart motorways programme across the north-west, including the opening of the M6 Cheshire smart motorway (M6 J16-19). 

He was also involved in researching future highways network needs and the development of the Road Investment Strategy Performance Specification to better reflect road user experiences in terms of availability and reliability.

He said: “I care passionately about the delivery of improved transport infrastructure which supports people’s wellbeing and productivity, and this is an exciting time to be joining the Midlands Connect team.”

Warrantywise names Wayne Duxbury as dealer sales director

Warrantywise has appointed Wayne Duxbury as dealer sales director to oversee operations and drive strategic growth.

Duxbury returns to Warrantywise, where he began his career, bringing with him extensive experience gained in the automotive industry.

He initially joined Warrantywise as a dealer account manager and quickly advanced to the position of field sales manager.

He then further honed his skills at Momentum Warranties, where he led sales teams and drove business development.

His return comes at a time when Warrantywise has expanded its local workforce to more than 130 employees.

He said: “My focus will be on fostering innovation and collaboration within our team to meet and exceed these expectations as we continue to grow.”