Vertu Motors’ fleet division founder David Jewell has retired after half a century in the industry.

Jewell, who joined the company in 2008, was the founder and subsequent manager of Vertu Group Fleet, part of Vertu Motors PLC.

He will be replaced as general manager for the division by Paul Lowdon, who has worked for the company since 2006.

Speaking of his time at Vertu Group Fleet, Jewell said: “I have loved every minute of leading the fleet division at Vertu Motors.

“Having been at the company from such an early stage, it has been incredibly fulfilling to watch it grow and develop into a thriving business.

“Thanks to continued dedication from Caroline, Paul and the rest of the team, I feel proud of everything we have achieved at Vertu Group Fleet over the last eight years.

“I am sad to be leaving the team but can leave happily knowing that the division is in safe hands with Paul.”

Jewell began his career in the automotive industry in 1968 as a junior sales executive in a Chrysler dealership in Newcastle and spent eight years at the dealership, during which time he oversaw the launch of its fleet division.

In 1975, David joined the Cowie Motor Group for three years before moving to Ford Motor Group for three years as fleet manager.

He re-joined Cowie Motor Group, renamed Arriva in 1998, where he met his successor, Lowdon and long-time colleague, Caroline Imrie.

They moved to Reg Vardy in 2003 to set up its fleet business, before meeting again five years later to form Vertu Group Fleet, where they have been ever since.

Since launching the fleet division, David has watched his team increase from just three to 20, while the fleet itself has risen from 500 to 10,500 vehicles in eight years of business.

Robert Forrester, CEO of Vertu Motors PLC, said: “David has been a huge asset to the fleet division and the Group as a whole since joining in 2008.

“When I first met David I knew nothing about fleet and the years working with him have been nothing but an education.”

“Through his knowledge, commitment and leadership, he has built the fleet division from the ground up to be one of the most successful sectors of the business, all whilst delivering a consistently high level of service to all our fleet customers.

“His presence will be sorely missed by all of his colleagues. We wish him all the best in his retirement.”