Rob Lindley will resign as managing director of Mazda UK tomorrow to pursue a career with McLaren Automotive.

Jeremy Thomson, Mazda UK sales director, will be promoted as new managing director following Lindley’s departure.

Philip Waring, Mazda Motor Europe vice president sales, told dealers in a memo: “Like his predecessors, Jeremy has been with the company since its formation and brings with him a wealth of experience gained in both the fleet and marketing areas, as well as his previous role as sales director.

“I am confident that he will guide the company through the tough economic climate which we face today and ensure that both Mazda and its dealer organisation are well positioned for the future.”

Mazda UK said details of Thomson’s successor as sales director would be made in a separate announcement.