Rolls-Royce Motor Cars will appoint David Archibald to the new role of regional director for Europe and South Africa on January 1, 2008.

Graeme Grieve, sales and marketing director, said: "The creation of this new role is part of a review of the sales and marketing structure to ensure we are prepared for our future growth.

"As our product range increases with the addition of the Phantom Drophead Coupe this year, the new Coupe model that comes next year and the smaller model set for the turn of the decade, this change comes at a pivotal moment in our company’s recent history."

Axel Obermueller, who is currently responsible for sales in Europe and the Middle East will retire on December 31 this year. Peter Schoppman will remain as regional director for the Middle East, but from January 1 will report directly to Graeme Grieve.

Archibald joined Rolls-Royce in 2002 as regional director for UK and South Africa.

David Archibald