Archie Moss Motors, part of the Leicestershire-based Prince Group, is looking to increase its number of dealerships from three (two Vauxhall and one VW) to five by the end of 2005, and has been bolstering staff ranks in anticipation.

But the process has not been without its pitfalls.

A new general manager was recruited at Archie Moss’s Coalville Vauxhall dealership to replace an internal promotion, but moved on quickly when it became clear he did not have the drive, enthusiasm or leadership skills to help the company achieve its growth ambitions.

At the same time, Sarjit Rana came on board in the newly created role of area market manager overseeing the two Vauxhall sites. He is thriving in the role.

“I’m a target-orientated, very hands-on kind of person,” says Rana. “The company wants to expand to five dealerships by the end of this year. It knows that the only way to manage that growth is by going out and recruiting the right people.”

Rana has taken on three new staff members so far, and is looking for one more to strengthen the sales department.