Lookers’ McPhee exits AM100 giant after 15 years

Duncan McPhee is stepping down from his role as the chief operating officer of AM100 dealership giant Lookers.

“After more than 15 years at Lookers, Duncan McPhee has decided to step down from his role as chief operating officer,” confirmed Kuldeep Billan, executive chairman of Lookers.

 “Last year was a transformational period for Lookers, as we transitioned from being a listed company on the London Stock Exchange to private ownership. Throughout this period of change, Duncan has played an important role and made a significant contribution. I am sure you will all join me in wishing him every success in the future.

“From this date, our operations committee will report directly into Steve Kwak, our global chief operating officer, who many of you will already know.”

McPhee, who became COO in 2021, commented: “After nearly 16 years at Lookers, it is amazing how far the business has progressed and I am proud to have been be a part of it. One of the many highlights has been working with a fantastic team of people. I wish my colleagues and the Lookers business every success in the future.”

Lookers is one of the largest multi-franchise dealer groups in the UK and Ireland, representing 33 volume and premium car manufacturers across a network of over 150 franchised locations.

The group transitioned to private ownership in October last year, following a £504 million deal by Canadian firm Alpha Auto Group prompting the departure of its chief executive Mark Raban at the end of December.

The business completed a review of its business and operations following the deal, which led to 650 redundancies across the group.

Last week, Lookers opened its first new and used multi-franchise Car Hub retail concept in Middlesbrough. The £6m investment has a special focus on electric vehicle (EV) sales with a dedicated EV Experience Centre .

Last year, Lookers also invested £3m transforming its Volkswagen dealership in Teesside, bringing both its local VW car and van sites together into one consolidated redeveloped location.

In January this year, it also officially opened a new Nissan showroom in Sunderland as part of a strategy to extend its presence in the northeast.