John Hargreaves retires from Kia UK after 14 years

John Hargreaves, Kia UK’s head of fleet, has made the decision to retire after 14 years with the business.

Dave Williams will take over to head up Kia UK’s fleet team from July 1.

During his 14-year tenure, Hargreaves has been “instrumental in expanding Kia's appeal in the fleet market and increasing sales, introducing sustainable and stable practices that have resulted in loyal and happy customers”.

He began his career with Kia in February 2011, as head of fleet and remarketing; a position he has held throughout his time at the company, albeit under different job titles; latterly general manager for fleet and remarketing.

His time at Kia started when UK sales amounted to just over 50,000 annual registrations, compared to today’s figure being more than double.

Hargreaves said: “I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together during my time at Kia, having taken the company from the relatively small manufacturer that it once was, to becoming one of the most recognised and admired car brands in the UK.

“This is in no small part due to the hard work and dedication of the entire fleet team whom I've had the pleasure of leading, and who I am pleased to leave in such capable hands.

“Dave brings a great wealth of expertise to the role and I have every confidence in his ability to continue driving innovation in the fleet team for years ahead.”

As head of fleet, Williams (pictured left) will take over all aspects of the role, from fleet sales and remarketing to business-specific areas of the company, including Kia Rental, Motability and PBV sales.

This year sees the launch of the EV4, EV5 and PV5 van.

Williams’ career in automotive spans numerous roles from salesman and general manager within dealerships, to sales consultant, coach and trainer, working with various automotive brands.

He joined Kia in 2005 and heads up the fleet team from his role as Kia’s area manager for the South.

Williams said: “It has been my privilege to work for Kia over the past 20 years, and I very much look forward to returning to the fleet side of the business.

“The key to that success has been the people: the team and leadership, of which John has been integral.

“He has led the fleet team with incredible knowledge and foresight – something I hope to emulate as Kia enters its next chapter.

“One of the things I am most proud of during my time at Kia is people and personal development, which is something I hope to continue as head of fleet.

“I am very grateful to John for leaving the role in such a healthy position, which is testament to his exceptional stewardship of the role, and at a time when Kia is breaking sales records on an almost monthly basis and with a whole host of exciting new products to launch over the next few years.

“Finally, I very much look forward to leading the team and I wish John every heartfelt success and best wishes for the future and his retirement.”