John McConnell, Inchcape group finance director, has announced he will step down in March next year after 16 years with the company.

McConnell was group finance director for the last six years at the company and is leaving to return to his native Australia. He ran Inchcape's Australasia business before joining Inchcape in the UK.

He is staying until the end of Q1 next year "to ensure a smooth transistion".

Inchcape has started the recruitment process for who will take over McConnell's role.

Ken Hanna, Inchcape group chairman, said: "On behalf of the board, I would like to take this opportunity to thank John for the contribution he has made to Inchcape's success over the last 16 years.

"His expertise and insight as both group finance director and a member of the executive committee have been invaluable and he leaves behind a strong team and a business in great shape. It has been a pleasure to work alongside John and I am sure I speak on behalf of everyone at Inchcape in thanking him for his years of dedicated service to the group. I would also like to thank him for his ongoing support to ensure an orderly handover process."

McConnell said: "It is now time for me and my family to return to Australia and move on to the next chapter in our lives. Inchcape is an outstanding company and I am proud to have been part of its success over the past 16 years. I wish Stefan and his team continued success in the future."