Vertu Motors has strengthened its senior management team with the appointment of Steve Rowe as finance and insurance director.

Rowe joins Vertu from competitors Pendragon, where he has worked for almost 17 years, initially starting as a business manager working across a number of dealerships, before moving up through the ranks to become group finance and insurance director.

He has a number of awards to his name, including that of the Judges Award for Outstanding Finance and Insurance Performance at the inaugural Car Finance Awards in 2016.

In his new role Steve will work to ensure the best possible outcomes for customers and partners, in addition to supporting the strategic development of the Group and its dealerships nationwide.

Rowe said: “I’m exceptionally pleased to join Vertu Motors. It is an organisation on the up and its customer-centred approach struck a chord with me.

“Vertu also has a reputation in the industry as really valuing its colleagues and investing in their development, which is something I am also passionate about.

“I am looking forward to working with my fellow directors - several of whom I know from previous roles - and colleagues at a dealership level to develop our strategy and ensure that Vertu customers receive the very best possible retail experience.”

Robert Forrester, chief executive at Vertu Motors, said: “Steve is a welcome addition to the senior team at Vertu Motors. He is recognised as one of the best in the industry and a real expert.”