Black Horse has announced that John Woolley will stepping down as managing director of motor and leisure finance at the end of March.

Woolley will go on gardening leave from the end of January and Mike Whytock, currently regional director for the North region, will take on the role of acting managing director. Whytock will report to David Oldfield, Black Horse MD of asset finance division, until a permanent appointment is made.

Oldfield said: "John leaves us with our respect and thanks for his many years of service and we wish him well for whatever fresh challenges in his life he decides to take on."

Oldfield expects to appoint Woolley’s successor in the new few weeks.