Christopher Macgowan is leaving the Society for Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) at the end of the year.

Announcing his decision to step down as chief executive, Mr Macgowan said: “It will be business as usual for the next seven months and I intend to leave at the top of my game. It has been a privilege working for the industry in this crucial role and I have enjoyed every moment of my nine years with the society.”