Lookers has restructured its senior management team in order to operate 'more effectively with its strategic car manufacturer partners'.

Mark Kass, operations director, will have responsibility in England for Renault, Nissan, Toyota, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Seat and Suzuki. Brian Schumacker, operations director, will have responsibility in England for Vauxhall, Volkswagen, Audi, MG Rover, Chrysler-Jeep and Honda.

These roles were previously divided on a north-south regional basis.

Andy Bruce will remain operations director for Charles Hurst Group in northern Ireland.

Andrew Hall has been appointed Renault franchise director in England and Graham Kimberley has been appointed Land Rover franchise director in England. Both these franchise directors will report to Mr Kass and further single franchise appointments will be made in due course.

Fred Maguire, Lookers' executive chairman, said: "This restructuring will enable us to strengthen our relationship with important strategic manufacturer partners as the industry adapts to change. It is clear the key to future success will be a closer understanding and trust between car retailer and manufacturer."

In addition, following the successful creation of a single Lookers plc marketing function, Peter Gordon (41), assumes the role of group marketing director.

Segar Karupiah will assume operational responsibility working alongside Mr Kass in addition to retaining his financial role.