Roger King is leaving the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders after eight years following his failure to be appointed chief executive.

He leaves at the end of this month to take a corresponding role at the Road Haulage Association, replacing Steven Norris who resigned to run as Conservative candidate for London mayor.

Mr King, formerly Birmingham Northfield Conservative MP, joined the SMMT as public affairs director and was put in charge following the death of Ernie Thompson.

Though known to want the top job, Mr King was overlooked and the appointment went to Christopher Macgowan, former RMI chief executive. Mr King became his deputy.