Lambert joined the FT in 1966 and became financial editor in 1979, New York bureau chief in 1982, and the following year was made deputy editor. He became editor in 1991 and held the post for ten years.

The following year he was asked to lead a review of the BBC News 24 rolling news channel on behalf of the Department of Culture, Media and Sport.

After this success, Lambert was asked to lead the Lambert Review of Business-University Collaboration which reported back in 2003.

In June 2003, he became the first non-economist to join the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee as an external member. He will step down from that post with immediate effect.

Bennett, who joined Kwik-Fit Fleet in 2001 as a corporate account manager, takes over from Nigel Davies, has been promoted to UK fleet sales director.

The senior management reshuffle was prompted by the appointment of Mike Wise as European fleet sales director, while also retaining overall management and strategic responsibility for the UK fleet market.

Bennett joined Kwik-Fit after a 23-year career with Michelin, and is now responsible for managing the five-strong team of account managers in charge of business with Britain’s top 50 contract hire and leasing companies. He also manages the Kwik-Fit Fleet Tyreline controllers employed to handle tyre business with the firm’s largest leasing customers.

Tom Mullarkey brings to RoSPA a wealth of experience and achievements and I am confident that his appointment will mark a further milestone in our proud history. I know that our staff, members and clients will welcome his appointment.’

Davis rejoined Manheim in May 2004 after gaining valuable external industry experience with the likes of Lex Transfleet and Royal Bank of Scotland. Reporting to Alex Wright, commercial vehicle director, Davis’ new role will see him working closely with vendors and buyers to ensure further growth in Manheim’s LCV, HGV and plant sectors.

Commenting on his promotion, Davis said: ‘The commercial vehicle side of Manheim’s business continues to go from strength to strength. Recent innovations such as the launch of Simulcast, which enables online buyers to watch and participate in live auctions via their PCs and publications such as our LCV Fair Wear and Tear Guide, which has been adopted by BVRLA members as the industry standard, highlight that our offering is much more than just auctions.’