Volkswagen Financial Services has announced the appointment of LeasePlan’s Tom Brewer as head of sales and marketing.

Brewer (pictured) will head up the 33-strong team at Milton Keynes headquarters across all sales activities, customer management and engagement.

It is hoped his appointment will enhance the company’s portfolio, as well as developing relationships with key business partners.

“The business car market is facing challenges,” said Brewer.

“With an unattractive company car tax regime reducing demand and high levels of competition pushing down margins we have to look at new ways of differentiating ourselves and continuing our strong organic growth.

“One of our advantages is being part of both a large automotive group and a robust financial institution; this gives us the scope and resources to offer the latest products and services that are at the same time cost effective for our customers and profitable for us.”

Brewer brings nearly 18 years experience of working within the vehicle lease and rental market and is looking to further grow its market share in the SME and commercial vehicle sector.

He believes growth also lies in new channels such as introducing new premium value added products through to developing digital marketing and sales activity that will help the business become more agile.

Volkswagen Financial Services’ fleet director, Ian Tilbrook, said: “I’m delighted Tom is joining us at this important stage of our organisations development, he will play a key role in our future strategic growth.”