Paul Philpott, Kia UK’s managing director, is leaving to become chief operating officer for its European head office.

Philpott will be leaving for Frankfurt in August and will be responsible for all of Kia's pan-European operations including sales, marketing and aftersales.

He will also manage relations with the company's manufacturing operations in Zilina, Slovakia where the Cee'd and Sportage are built.

Kia’s European president Sun-Young Kim said: "In the UK Paul has clearly shown how to effectively turn around a business that was on the wrong track and his ability to motivate a dealer network to deliver an outstanding experience for Kia customers.

“He has achieved tremendous things in the UK - not least helping Kia to become Carmaker of the Year at this year's AM Awards.”

Kia is yet to announce who will be taking over as managing director for the UK.