Honda Motor Europe (HME) has announced changes to the senior management of its European business.

Ken Keir, executive vice president, is to retire at the end of June after 20 years service at Honda, while Ian Howells, formerly head of business administration for HME, takes on the position of senior vice president for Europe, reporting to Manabu Nishimae, HME's president.

Keir leaves Honda after a long and highly successful career in the business. He joined Honda (UK) in 1993 as general manager, cars, a move which coincided with Honda's automotive manufacturing investment in Swindon.

In 1998, he was promoted to managing director of Honda (UK). His responsibilities were further added to in 2003, when he was appointed senior vice president, Honda Motor Europe, in charge of 27 European markets for cars, motorcycles and power products.

Throughout his career he has been a passionate advocate for apprenticeships and people development within the motor industry. This was formally recognised in 2006, when he was awarded an OBE for services to the motor industry.

Ian Howells joined Honda Motor Europe five years ago following a number of senior management positions for multi-national businesses.