DS Automobiles has appointed former PSA sales director Rob Thomas as its new UK sales director.

Thomas (pictured) joined Groupe PSA in 2008 where he held roles as used vehicle operations manager for Robins and Day, and head of regional operations for Citroen UK before moving to PSA Finance.

In his new role, Thomas will be based at DS’ headquarters in Coventry.

Thomas said: “I’m thrilled to be joining DS Automobiles at this pivotal moment. I’m really looking forward to being part of the brand’s continued development and future success."

Thomas has moved to DS as the brand expands its dealer network and Only You customer experience programme.

“The recent arrival of DS 7 Crossback - the first of the second-generation range of DS cars - will soon be joined by another key model due to be unveiled with a 100% electric version at the forthcoming Paris International Motor Show in October. Perfectly timed,” said Thomas.

Yesterday's publication of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders' (SMMT) monthly new car registrations figures revealed that the DS Automobiles brand recorded just 216 registrations as its registrations for the month fell 58.7% for July.

The decline came in a month that saw the brand officially become a seperate retailing entity to the PSA Group's Citroen franchise.