Fiat has restructured its UK operations to strengthen ties with the contract hire industry.

The move follows a similar reshuffle at Fiat’s Italian headquarters, intended to forge closer contract hire relationships Europe-wide.

Paul Frain has been appointed contract hire and leasing manager (north), while Sam Watkins takes on the same role for the south. Both will report to corporate sales manager James McMenamin.

In Turin, three fleet account managers have been appointed to develop pan-European relationships, and agreements have already been signed with LeasePlan, Arval, GE, ALD, Masterlease, ING and Daimler Financial Services.

Fiat hopes to increase penetration into the contract hire sector and educate drivers and fleets about Fiat’s car and van range.

“The contract hire sector is growing across Europe, and Fiat’s approach will strengthen relationships with all providers and improve sales,” said Fiat Group’s fleet and remarketing director, Adam Pumfrey.

“Fiat in Italy has set up the entire programme in association with the support of all the main markets, which will mean greater partnership opportunities at a pan European and country level.

“The appointments we have made in the UK will further support this Europe-wide initiative.”