Gerry Keaney has been appointed as the new chief executive of the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA).

Keaney has wealth of experience in the automotive industry having started his career at British Leyland and subsequently spending 21 years at Volvo Cars.

After spells in a number of senior sales, operations and dealer roles, he was managing director of Volvo Cars UK between 1996 and 2002. He then moved on to a number of international roles at the parent company, culminating with nine years as senior vice president of marketing, sales and customer service.

Commenting on Keaney’s appointment, Neil Cunningham, chairman of the BVRLA, said: “The vehicle rental and leasing industry continues to lead the way in promoting safe, sustainable and affordable road transport and we are proud to have attracted a senior executive with such a wealth of experience.

Keaney will take up his appointment on May 1. Current chief executive John Lewis will be stepping down after leading the association for 13 years, but will assume a new part-time role as the BVRLA’s director of external affairs.

Cunningham said: “I would like to thank John for the tireless work he has undertaken on behalf of the association and its members.

“Thanks to his leadership, the BVRLA has more influence than ever and has evolved into a growing, modern trade association that continues to deliver vital information and services to its members.

“I am delighted that he has agreed to stay on and use his knowledge and contacts to help represent the industry’s views in the UK and in Europe.”