Hitachi Capital has announced a series of senior management changes, which are aimed at growing its vehicle solutions business across the globe, with particular focus on Europe.

The changes that took effect on April 1 include current chief executive of the Vehicle Solutions Group Simon Oliphant will become chairman of the Vehicle Solutions UK business, handing over operational responsibility to Jon Lawes, who is currently divisional managing director of Hitachi Capital Commercial Vehicle Solutions. He will remain a director of parent company Hitachi Capital (UK) PLC.

Oliphant has worked for Hitachi Capital for 27 years, with the last 15 being spent running its UK vehicle leasing and fleet management business.

Lawes has been promoted to managing director of the Vehicle Solutions group which includes the commercial vehicle, car leasing and driving instructor businesses.

Robert Wastell will continue as divisional managing director of Hitachi Capital Car Solutions.

Oliphant said: “I am immensely proud of what we have achieved at Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions, especially as it is being used as the benchmark for expansion into other countries and continents.

“I would like to congratulate Jon Lawes on his new role. He knows our UK business and customers very well so he is in a great position to continue to drive the business forward, whilst maintaining continuity.”

Chairman and chief executive for Hitachi Capital Corporation America and Europe Chris Shirai said: “The launch of the Strategy Office is a clear indication of our group’s appetite to extend the successful Vehicle Solutions formula into other markets. Simon’s great track record in this sector makes him the perfect leader of this exciting new initiative.”