Toyota Announces Paul Philpott As New Commercial Director
Toyota GB today (27 January, 2003) announced the appointment of Paul Philpott as its new Commercial Director with effect from 1 February, 2003.
Philpott, 36, joined Toyota GB in 1997 as General Manager, Vehicle Marketing and was promoted to Marketing Director in August 1999. As Commercial Director he will have overall responsibility for retail and fleet sales, dealer development, marketing communications and operations, product planning, vehicle re-marketing and press and public affairs.
Prior to joining Toyota he spent nine years with Ford Motor Company, where he developed a highly successful career within sales and marketing. During the past five years he played a central role in the growth and development of the Toyota brand which has itself enjoyed 10 consecutive years of sales growth in the UK.
Philpott succeeds Mike Moran who is leaving the company to take up the position of Worldwide Director of Marketing and Strategy with Thames Water plc, the water subsidiary of international multi-utility group RWE AG.
Speaking of his appointment, Philpott said: “I am delighted to be taking on this key role as Toyota moves into the next critical phase of its growth in the UK. We have built a truly integrated sales and marketing team, which I am proud to have the opportunity to lead.”
High on Philpott’s immediate agenda will be the March launch of the new, UK-built Toyota Avensis. This all-new car will renew Toyota’s assault on the company car market and push for accolades within the premium upper medium retail sector.
Toyota GB’s Managing Director, Graham Smith said: “Mike Moran made a significant contribution to the development of the company, not least in developing a strong management team for the future with clear lines of succession. I have no doubt that Paul Philpott’s appointment will provide seamless continuity for our dealers and staff, ensure that Toyota will continue to grow strongly and will consolidate our position as a highly desirable prestige volume brand.”
ENDS
