Waters AutoPlanet, part of Automotive Retail Group (ARG) in the south east, has just appointed Ken O’Brien to head up its new fleet and local business operation to be based in Chingford.

O’Brien, who will be representing all Waters AutoPlanet franchise brands including Kia, Mazda, Peugeot, Fiat and Seat, has previously held management positions with Ford Motor Company, Volkswagen Group and Rover Finance as well as key positions in a number of dealer groups.

He said: “Motor dealers often concentrate on the retail market and ignore the important fleet and local business sector.

“This represents a major section of car and van buyers and retailers ignore it at their peril. In addition to the obvious opportunity to sell more vehicles there are also all the spin-off opportunities for parts, service and bodyshop.”

ARG also has used car centres in Chingford, Maidstone, Letchworth, Southampton, St Albans and Tunbridge Wells.