Former Nissan vice president of global sales Allan Rushforth has joined AM100 dealer group Lookers as managing director.

His appointment follows the promotion of MD Nigel McMinn to the role of chief operating officer at the Manchester-based national motor retailer.

And finance director Robin Gregson has been promoted to chief financial officer.

The Lookers business has seen significant growth, particularly in recent years, and these appointments are designed to strengthen the company’s senior management team to reflect the increased scale of operations, said a spokesman.

The company said that since joining from Benfield in 2013, McMinn has made a substantial contribution to the business in terms of developing the three key strategic focus areas of: people, technology and brand, whilst significantly strengthening key manufacturer and supplier relationships.

Rushforth will report to McMinn and have Lookers’ franchise directors as his direct reports, with a clear focus on delivering outstanding operational performance on customer, brand partner and financial metrics.

In his career, he held a variety of senior roles at carmakers, including chief operating officer of Hyundai Motor Europe, based in Germany, and the global sales role at Nissan, based in Japan.

Rushforth said: “It’s terrific to return to the UK and to join the team at Lookers which I know and trust.

“During an important period for British business and in a sector that’s likely to change at a faster rate than ever before, I’m convinced we can deliver enhanced stakeholder value, founded on the best customer experience in the business.”

Andy Bruce, Lookers’ chief executive, said: “Nigel's promotion is richly deserved and recognises his pivotal position in the progress we have made in recent years.

“I am also delighted that Allan, a true global industry leader, is joining our team and I have no doubt he will prove to be a huge asset to our business in the years to come.

“Given the scale and complexity of the business we now have, it is entirely appropriate that we recognise the outstanding contribution that Robin has made to our success in his time with the business.”

McMinn added: “These changes provide the foundations for the continued growth of Lookers plc, providing our business with the organisational capability to stay ahead of the market, accelerate our strategic ambition and achieve our short term operational goals.”