Duncan McPhee joins board of AM100 dealer group

Hendy Group has named Duncan McPhee as its new chief operating officer (COO) to support the executive board as it prepares for its next phase of growth.

McPhee will join the company in October, reporting directly to chief executive Paul Hendy.

Most recently, McPhee served as COO at Lookers until April, where he led a team of over 6,500 employees and managed a turnover exceeding £4 billion last year.

Lookers transitioned to private ownership in October last year, following a £504 million deal by Canadian firm Alpha Auto Group, prompting the departure of its chief executive Mark Raban at the end of December.

In his new role as COO at Hendy Group, McPhee will oversee daily operations and drive performance across key areas, including car and commercial vehicle sales, aftersales, logistics, marketing, finance and insurance, and customer experience.

Hendy Group, ranks 18th in the AM100, achieved a turnover of just over £1 billion in 2023 and represents more than 20 automotive brands across the South Coast.

“Duncan’s passion for developing high-performing teams and creating an environment where colleagues can thrive aligns perfectly with our culture and growth ambitions,” said Paul Hendy.

“While the Group has enjoyed strong and sustained growth in recent years, we recognise that the strategy that got us here will differ from the one that propels us forward. Duncan will play a key role in shaping and executing our exciting future.”

McPhee added: “Designing and implementing new operational strategies and maximising the potential of a dedicated team is what drives me. I’m excited to explore how we can leverage the strengths of the talented Hendy team, build on the company’s solid foundations, and steer the group’s future. I’m eager to get started.”

McPhee began his career as a sales executive at John Martin Group before spending a decade at Arnold Clark as a general manager.

He joined Lookers in 2008, where he progressed from general manager to operations manager, and eventually to franchise director, working with various brands including Kia, Renault, Dacia, Nissan, Hyundai, Volvo, Stellantis brands, and all Volkswagen Group brands.

In 2020, he was promoted to chief retail operating officer, overseeing dealership operations, brand relationships, marketing, and customer engagement, before being appointed COO with full responsibility for retail, fleet, and leasing operations.