Black Horse Finance, whose parent company Lloyds TSB has launched a £12.2 billion takeover bid for rival HBOS, has restructured its motor division.

The move will enable Black Horse Finance's field sales staff to spend more time helping dealers drive sales and maximise profits.

As part of an ongoing review, Black Horse is removing non-added value activities and has reviewed the amount of time its 235-strong field staff spend on administration issues.

It is also providing dealers with additional technology to let them control their business better by tracking progress of finance proposals rather than calling their account managers.

Chris Sutton, Black Horse Motor and Leisure managing director, also intends to promote the customer benefits of point of sale finance more aggressively.

He is interviewing for a marketing and product director, a new position at the company, who will develop products that are attractive for dealers and their customers.

Black Horse is also ramping up its approved dealer programme to highlight its brand in the showroom and give customers peace of mind when buying finance.