GRAHAM Rixon, managing director of ARVAL PHH's fleet division, is leaving the company. The surprise departure is effective immediately.

Rixon said: 'After three exciting years with ARVAL PHH, I have found that now is the right time to move on to pastures new. I have been delighted to contribute to the continuing success of the company.'

Management of the division will be shared between Mike Breeze, fleet operations director, Martyn Lewis, director of the Commercial Vehicle Division, and Lorraine Wright, managing director of ARVAL PHH Accident Management.

Francois Dambrine, head of ARVAL PHH Group, and chief executive of ARVAL PHH UK said: 'I am fully confident that this strong team has the knowledge and experience to successfully lead the fleet division towards our goal of being the leading vehicle and business solutions provider in Europe.'