Renault Retail Group has appointed Stuart Walker as its new managing director.

Walker, who has been the group's deputy managing director since 2006, replaces Ian Plummer who was recently promoted to Renault UK's director of commercial operations.

Walker has almost 29 years experience with Renault, having started as sales manager at Renault Manchester.

He will also head-up the group's Nissan operations, as well as its used car franchise Autoworld.

Walker said: "I am thrilled to be taking over at the helm of Renault Retail and continuing the good work that was done under Ian Plummer's leadership.

"Under his tenure, the group - which is 100% owned by Renault - has achieved its aims of volume and profitability through quality and commitment to the very best customer service.

"We are fortunate in that we have a team of extremely dedicated and highly professional staff throughout our 23 sites. All of them share our strong passion for the brand.

"Coupled with a strong and innovative product range and its strong reputation for safe and stylish cars and vans, we are in a good position to face the future."