Former Volkswagen UK boss Paul Willis is leaving his current post as chief operating officer of Kia Motors Europe after barely nine months in the role.

On October 1 he will take over responsibility as managing director of Volkswagen Group Ireland from Bob O'Callaghan, who is retiring.

Willis's appointment coincides with Volkswagen AG's taking responsibility for the Irish distribution business of Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, previously licensed to O'Flaherty Holdings.