Former Ford of Britain MD Andy Barratt takes Lexus role in UAE

Former Ford of Britain managing director Andy Barratt has ended a brief “retirement” period to take up a new role with Lexus in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Barratt, whose departure from Ford after 40 years was made official last month – with former director of passenger vehicles, Lisa Brankin stepping into the role – three weeks after he took a temporary leave of absence from the business.

But Barratt has stayed true to a statement posted on LinkedIn, which stated that he had retired “from Ford but not work”, by landing a new role with the Al Futtaim organisation, where former Volkswagen Group UK managing director Paul Willis is CEO

Taking to LinkedIn once more this week, Barratt announced: “I am absolutely delighted to confirm that my very short retirement end this Sunday, when I start my new role as Managing Director, Lexus for the UAE market, as part of the fabulous Al Futtaim organisation.

“Long been an ambition to work in this growth market, with this fantastic team.”

Willis was among the first to congratulate Barratt on landing his new role in a message posted on LinkedIn. He said: "Andy , can’t wait for u to join. Not only will we drive to be a world class business but most importantly we will have a lot of fun as a team..."

Paying tribute to his former colleagues at Ford just over a fortnight ago, Barratt said that he was leaving the most capable, dynamic, inspiring and loyal team that he has ever worked with.

"The Ford of Britain national sales company is just fantastic, and I am immensely proud of every single team member," he added.

"Over the years we have stood shoulder to shoulder with the worlds best dealer body - through the good and difficult times - and it's been an immense honour to work alongside such an entrepreneurial group of people. The past 40 years has been a true privilege."