Vauxhall Motors has appointed Stephanie Howson as its new retail sales director following the departure of Leon Caruso.

Brand stalwart Howson joined Vauxhall in 1994 as an aftersales business analyst and has risen through the ranks of sales district manager, regional operations manager, national sales manager, marketing programmes manager and currently national major group manager.

A statement issued by Vauxhall said that Howson today (October 1) would replace Leon Caruso, who has chosen to pursue an opportunity outside the PSA Group, with immediate effect.

Howson said: “I am delighted to take up my new position as Retail Sales Director working with a great team and retailer partners to deliver our strategic PACE! plan.

“Together, our goal is to deliver the sales growth and brand reputation enhancement that our great products and services deserve.”

Stephen Norman, group managing director at Vauxhall Motors and Opel Ireland, said: “I’m delighted to promote Stephanie to sales director.

“Her extensive knowledge of the automotive industry and personal technical and behavioural qualities will be a great benefit to the management board of the business.

“I would also like to thank sincerely Leon Caruso for his long commitment to Vauxhall Motors and his contribution to the PACE! turnaround plan. I wish him well for the future.”