Harry Taylor, group managing director at Bradford-based JCT600, is to retire at the end of the month after 17 years with the retail group.

Now approaching 60, Taylor joined JCT600 from GM as general manager of its Porsche dealership in Leeds in 1987. He became divisional director of the specialist cars division in 1998 and was promoted to managing director four years later with responsibility for the three Mercedes and two BMW dealerships.

John Tordoff, chief executive and son of group founder Jack Tordoff, says the company has enjoyed unprecedented success, growing both turnover and profits year-on-year over that period. “Harry has been an integral part of the success the group has enjoyed over recent years and he leaves with our best wishes and thanks,” Tordoff adds.

He intends to take on Taylor’s responsibilities himself, and is not looking for a replacement.