Steve Robertson has been appointed as the new head of marketing for Seat UK.

Bringing 17 years of industry experience with him, the 46-year-old is taking over from Mark McKenna, who left the role in April to head up the operations side of the business.

“I am relishing the opportunity to build awareness and develop the brand proposition,” says Robertson. “The launch of the exciting Leon FR last month, which spearheads the whole Seat FR series, and the extreme Leon Cupra at the end of the year, give the Seat brand a great product platform.”

Robertson has been with Seat for one year and previously held the role of national communications manager. Previously, he worked as head of marketing for the MG Rover group and was brand manager at Mini. He has also worked for Peugeot.

In his new role, Robertson hopes to create an emotional pull for Seat cars and to connect with its target customers that are attracted by the brand’s sporty credentials.

Peter Wyhinny, director of Seat UK, says: “Robertson’s experience, understanding and passion for the Seat brand will stand us in good stead as we move forwards with our new products.”