New Vantage Motor Group aftersales director Dale Baker has said that he is "delighted to be back" at the fast-expanding dealer group.

Baker, who started his career as a 16-year-old apprentice at Hartwell Banbury and was aftersales manager at Vantage Toyota York between 2010 and 2013, has rejoined the fast-growing dealer group to head-up the aftersales operation across its 25 sites in the newly-created role.

He said: “I am delighted to be back at Vantage and to have the opportunity to work once again with people I really enjoyed working with and for brands that really engaged me.

“I stayed in touch with the management team at Vantage and watched as it grew and grew into a national company, while still embracing its original values. Towards the end of last year I was made aware of the creation of my current role and didn’t have to think twice before applying.

“It’s an incredibly exciting time to be working for Vantage and I will look to build upon recent success by working to further improve performance in areas including service, parts and body shop across all sites.”

When Baker first joined the group six years ago the Vantage represented two brands at seven centres. It now operates across 25 sites representing eight brands. 

His appointment follows Vantage’s recent acquisition of Lookers’ former Lexus and Toyota dealerships in Leeds and Wakefield for £12.7 million earlier this year.

Mark Robinson, managing director of Vantage Motor Group, said: “We’re extremely pleased to welcome Dale back on board. He has expert insight within the industry and his knowledge base of Vantage is already there.

“I believe this will be a seamless transition for Dale and we are looking forward to the innovative solutions and professional service he will bring with him.”