Honda’s UK sales division is to be led by David Hodgetts from January 3.

As managing director he takes control of the company’s sales operation for cars, motorcycles and power products.

He succeeds Philip Crossman who made the decision in the summer, to retire after 17 years at Honda.

He said: “Honda is a unique company and it has been a privilege to hold several senior roles in the UK during my time here. We have an excellent product line-up, dealer profitability is well above industry average, our customers love the service they receive from our dealers and the Honda (UK) business is well balanced and in a good shape to pass on to Dave.

One of the key factors for me in deciding to leave was who would take over, it had to be someone for whom I had great trust and respect, my recommendation was Dave and I am delighted the company endorsed that choice”

Hodgetts (pictured) said: “I look forward to continuing the great work that Phil has done in developing a strong partnership with our dealer network, supported by the tremendous team of people that we have in Honda (UK).”

Hodgetts is 57 years-old, and is married with two children.

He has worked at Honda for 27 years, joining as a production engineer in 1990 prior to the construction of Honda’s first car manufacturing plant in Swindon.

His last role at Swindon was director of planning and administration, a position he held for five years.

After 20 years with Honda (UK) Manufacturing, he moved to Honda (UK) Sales in 2010 before working in Honda’s European operations for the last four years.