Vertu Motors has promoted Simon Horabin to the role of franchise director to oversee its Bristol Street Motors Seat and Skoda dealerships.

Horabin (pictured) joined Vertu Motors in May 2017 as group project general manager, with 35 years’ experience across all areas of the motor retail industry, having started his career on a Youth Training Scheme with Ford.

He previously worked with Volkswagen, as brand director, and also with Mercedes for over 20 years.

As franchise director for Seat and Skoda, Horabin will be building brand relationships and recognition, operate the sites and focus on the managers’ personal development and performance.

He said: “I have only been with Vertu Motors for a relatively short period of time but have been thoroughly impressed by the operations of the organisation, its ambitions as a business and its commitment to the training and development of colleagues.

“I am excited to be working with two dynamic brands across the UK, and I am looking forward to driving forward their new innovative products that they have to offer, for example the Seat Arona and Skoda Koraq.”