Vertu appoints ex-Vauxhall retail sales boss as operations director

Vertu Motors has appointed Leon Caruso as group operations director for the multi-franchise division, incorporating the Peugeot, Hyundai, Toyota and Volvo franchises.

He joins the company from Vauxhall Motors where he held the position of retail sales director.

Robert Forrester, CEO of Vertu Motors, said: “This is a great appointment for the group and I am confident that Leon will add considerably to the blend of experience in the senior team.

“He will certainly bring a new perspective that will assist us in adapting Vertu Motors to the forthcoming changes in the sector, whether they be related to new technologies or changes to the way vehicles get to market.

“I have always held him in very high regard and I look forward to working with him closely as we continue to build the Group.”

Caruso said: “I am delighted to be joining Vertu Motors. At a time of exciting change and innovation in our industry, this role is an excellent opportunity to join such a highly regarded pace-setter in the UK motor retail sector.

“I look forward to adding my experience to that of the established senior leadership team and using this to drive further business growth by ensuring we continue to meet and exceed the ever-changing needs of our customers.”

Vertu Motors is rated six in the Motor Trader Top 200 with annual turnover of £2.8bn.