NIGEL Stephens is stepping down as CEO of independent fleet specialist VELO and will be replaced by the current sales and marketing director Tony Johnston.

Stephens, who led the management buy-out of VELO from Dresdner Kleinwort Benson in 1999, has been at the reins for the past six years.

Johnston joined VELO in 1998 and was part of the original management buy out team. His experience in fleet management and leasing includes time with Hertz Leasing and Hambros Bank.