David Beattie to head Mini UK and Ireland, Izzo charged with European role

David Beattie will take the helm as director of Mini UK and Ireland in the New Year, succeeding Federico Izzo, who moves on to become head of Mini in Europe after successfully overseeing the relaunch of the new Mini family in the UK.

Beattie joined BMW Group UK in 2005. Most recently he led the used car business since 2023 and previously served as Mini sales director from 2018.

Over his nearly two decades with the company, Beattie has developed expertise in sales and marketing and built strong relationships with the group’s retailer network.

In turn, Rob East, general manager for national sales since March 2022, will step into Beattie’s role as used cars sales director. East joined BMW Group in 2018, initially heading corporate sales for both BMW and Mini brands.

David George, CEO of BMW Group UK, expressed confidence in the appointments: “With David and Rob, I’m delighted to welcome two highly experienced colleagues to their new roles within our management committee. I’m confident Mini and the used cars sales division will thrive under their leadership. I’d also like to thank Federico for his exceptional work launching the new Mini family in what remains Mini’s largest global market. I wish him great success in his new role.”