New leadership team takes the reins at BVRLA

Two new appointments have been made to the senior leadership team at trade body, the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA).

Toby Poston has stepped into the role of chief executive following the retirement of Gerry Keaney after more than 11 years in the role.   

The BVRLA has also named Lakshmi Moorthy as its new chairperson, replacing Jon Lawes after his extended tenure.

Poston takes the top job after 16 years with the association, where he was most recently director of corporate affairs, responsible for policy and public affairs, communications, events, research and fleet services. 

During that time, he was the BVRLA's chief spokesperson and guided the industry’s response to a variety of challenges including Brexit, the Covid pandemic and terrorist attacks involving rental vehicles.

Poston said: “Change and challenge await us through 2025 and beyond, but I have absolute faith that our members are well equipped to succeed. I am honoured to take up this role and represent an industry, membership and team that I have so much respect and affection for.

“I am responsible for making sure that the BVRLA is heard in the right places and agile enough to meet member needs. Delivering decarbonisation, supporting the vehicle leasing sector’s response to the recent Court of Appeal judgement, and navigating a turbulent trading environment all require us to be on the front foot. I am fortunate to have a strong grounding in this sector and an excellent team ready to respond.” 

Lakshmi Moorthy, Arval UK’s managing director, has stepped up from her role as vice chair to lead the association’s committee of management. 

Taking over from Jon Lawes, Moorthy will lead the BVRLA’s board of directors, responsible for strategic direction and policy priorities, while ensuring the association is run on a sound financial basis.

She said: “During Jon’s tenure, supported immensely by Gerry’s leadership and the BVRLA team beyond, the association has grown a considerable amount. I have big boots to fill but am confident that we will retain this upwards trajectory. 

“In Toby, the BVRLA has a passionate leader that knows our sector inside out. I look forward to us working together at a time when members are facing challenges from all directions.”