Global Auto Holdings Limited (GAHL) has appointed former Volkswagen Group UK MD Alex Smith to the role of Chair of Lookers.
Smith joins GAHL following six years as MD of Volkswagen Group UK where he was responsible for more than one in every five new cars and light commercial vehicles sold nationwide. Previously, Smith served as Vice President of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) and MD of Nissan Motor Great Britain.
He said: “In an industry experiencing profound change and simultaneous opportunity, I’m absolutely delighted to join Global Auto Holdings to work with dedicated and experienced leadership teams with demonstrable track records in retail, automotive and financial services to drive the Group’s growth ambitions in the UK and Europe.
“I’m especially excited by the talent depth across the Group and by the strength of the brands which GAHL proudly represents. I look forward to working with every colleague to deliver for our OEM partners and customers in this transformative period for us all.”
Smith joins MD James Brearley in leading Lookers along with the recently appointed new executive team responsible for continuing the transformation that has been taking place since Lookers was acquired by GAHL in 2023. Both have also been appointed to GAHL’s Global Executive Committee.
A spokesperson for GAHL said: “The Lookers team, led by James Brearley, has made significant progress in transforming the business into a customer centric, high performing auto retailer that strives to be a strong partner to our respective manufacturer stakeholders and customers.
“We are extremely pleased to add someone of Alex’s calibre to the Lookers leadership team. We believe his deep automotive expertise, track record of industry leading results and overall strategic capabilities will greatly benefit both Lookers as well as GAHL’s European operations as we continue to pursue operational excellence and growth.
“Alex’s appointment to Chair of Lookers completes the first phase of the transformation of Lookers that began with our acquisition of the business in 2023. We are extremely confident that the newly constituted executive team will continue to prioritize our customers and OEM partner relationships while also driving sustainable growth in the business moving forward.”
