AWR Holdings has announced leadership changes at Brayleys Cars and Johnsons Cars.
José Blanco (pictured) will step down from his role as chief executive officer later this year.
Over the last year, he has overseen the acquisition and integration of Johnsons Cars, expanding the group to a £1.6bn turnover business, operating from 79 locations across 21 manufacturer brands.
Over recent months, the business has welcomed Andrew Burn, who now assumes the role of deputy chief executive Officer working closely with Blanco until his departure and the appointment of a new CEO.
Burn has previously served as a Partner at KPMG, where he was also head of automotive in the UK, in addition to holding several board positions across the automotive sector.
AWR has also appointed Punit Shetty as its new chief financial officer. Shetty joins from AW Rostamani in Dubai, where he held the role of automotive chief financial Officer for 15 years.
Burn said: This is a very exciting time for the Group. Bringing Brayleys and Johnsons together creates a powerful platform from which to continue our growth strategy.
We have already launched several initiatives to align all areas of the business, building on proven best practice from across both organisations while we actively review and develop new and innovative approaches as we strive to excel and challenge traditional thinking across the sector. The depth of talent, experience and capability within our team is exceptional, and following our recent national conference there is a real buzz and momentum across the business.
Our shareholders are absolutely committed to the Group and focused on delivering the strategic objectives that they have set which includes delivering best in class customer service and creating an amazing work environment for its valued workforce. With that unwavering support combined with the strength of Brayleys and Johnsons we know we are in an exciting position and will create something truly remarkable together.
It is clear to me that as we move forward, the Board are laser focused on strengthening our key manufacturer partnerships, continuing our strong growth trajectory, and pursuing the ambition to be a genuine positive disruptor in the UK automotive retail market.”
