Ford of Britain has announced a management shuffle ahead of incoming managing director Mark Ovenden's arrival next month.

Andy Barratt has been appointed sales director to replace Jon Wellsman, who will take over Barratt’s current role of director, Ford Customer Service Division (FCSD).

Anthony Ireson has been appointed marketing director, moving from his current position as head of dealer operations.

Ireson is replacing Mark Simpson, who has been appointed to lead the sales office in Ford Russia as the new Ford-Sollers joint venture is established.

Mark Ovenden said: “This appointment means that Mark can deploy his considerable sales and marketing expertise to maximum benefit. At the same time, continuity is being retained to a large extent in the core team in Britain, Ford’s biggest European sales market, as it works to grow Ford's UK sales leadership.

"The Ford of Britain appointments provide these senior executives with an opportunity to expand their experience and skills while tackling this challenge."

Ford of Britain's current managing director Nigel Sharp retires next month.