Newcastle-based Benfield Motor Group has announced that Nigel McMinn is to be the new managing director as part of a wider reorganization of the senior team and a new strategic direction for the business.

The AM100 retailer is one of the largest private companies in the UK with 26 dealerships and more than 1,100 employees. It has been owned and operated by the Squires family since 1957.

Ex-Vardy director and general manager McMinn says the changes point to the family’s commitment to the business and a clear message that it is in it for the long term.

He says: “We will put a lot of focus into areas of the business that can deliver quick successes for both our customers and our colleagues.

“With a fresh look at our current operations, I’m optimistic we can work together on some new initiatives that will support the dealership managers and their teams to reach new heights.”

McMinn says that acquisitions are not on his radar for at least the next two or three years, instead the group will become a more effective player at its current scale.

Chairman John Squires will take a non-executive role in the new structure, while chief executive Mark Squires will focus on strategic development of the company and chair the senior executive committee.