Ex-Inchcape chief Spencer Lock has been named as BCA’s new managing director.

Lock will take over from Andrew Hulme who will retire from the position on December 31, 2012.

He joined Inchcape in 1998 and progressed to CEO in 2007. He was then appointed as CEO of Inchcape Australia in 2009 and served in this role until earlier this year.

Hulme, who has been with the company for 45 years, will remain with the group as a non-executive director for 2013 in order to complete and be available for “certain projects”.

He will remain in his position as chairman of the National Association of Motor Auctions until spring next year.

Lock said: “I hope that my previous automotive experience in retail, distribution and also the leasing segment will help me to understand the needs of our customers.

“I look forward to leading the UK management team as the company continues to innovate in terms of product development, service offering and online capabilities.”