Jeremy Thomson has been appointed managing director, Mazda Motors UK, from the position of sales director, effective from Wednesday.

He replaces Rob Lindley who is leaving to work for McLaren Automotive, based in the UK.

Mr Thomson has held the role of sales director, Mazda UK for the past three years.

Prior to that, he held the positions of marketing director (2003 – 2005) and fleet director (2001 – 2003).

He also had a career at Ford Motor Company dating back to 1989 in a number of sales, marketing and service roles.

Philip Waring, vice president for sales at Mazda Motor Europe GmbH said: "Like his predecessors, Jeremy joined Mazda UK at its formation as a national sales company in 2001 and brings to the managing director role a wealth of experience gained in both the fleet and marketing areas as well as his current role as sales director.

"I am confident that Jeremy will guide the company through the tough economic climate which we face today to ensure that both Mazda and its dealer organisation are well positioned for the future."