Advantage DS, a leading sales and marketing services provider of OE automotive parts, is pleased to announce the appointment of Gervaise McMahon.

McMahon takes up the position in the newly created role as director of vehicle manufacturer programmes with immediate effect and joins the Leicestershire-based operation having spent 25 years in various senior management roles at PSA Peugeot Citroen encompassing sales and after sales, finance, contract hire and leasing and, most notably, parts trade sales and distribution. 

He will focus on increasing the company’s penetration of programmes offered directly to vehicle manufacturers by creating opportunities - and further cementing the relationships it currently enjoys - within that environment.

Having operated in the UK since 1994, Advantage currently represents more than 500 OE parts suppliers in the UK to its database of more than 40,000 repair businesses. McMahon’s appointment ensures Advantage brings its expertise directly in line with the requirements of vehicle manufacturers.

Commenting on his appointment, McMahon said: “After 25 years on the vehicle manufacturing and retail side of the business, I was attracted to Advantage DS because, without compromising on its key principles, the company is gearing up its business to provide support to vehicle manufacturers seeking to increase their parts sales.

“I am absolutely delighted to have joined Advantage as I genuinely believe that, working closely with vehicle manufacturers, we will grow their sales of OE parts to the trade in the UK.”

Advantage offers a unique multi-brand solution to both OE suppliers and the automotive repair sector by combining professionally managed services shared between non-competing suppliers.

This shared approach provides increased value and convenience to the repairer as they only need to deal with one contact for all their genuine parts needs.

Bob Kirstiuk, president of Advantage, said: "We are extremely excited to have Gervaise join our team and bring his outstanding experience, success and track record in the OE parts trade industry.

“We know his addition will further demonstrate the unique value and results we bring to our vehicle manufacturer clients"

Darren Clark, sales director of Advantage DS’ UK operation, added: “Vehicle manufacturers have a well honed strategy, clear objectives and quality products. As demonstrated through many trade clubs they are price competitive and their marketing is second to none in the industry.

“However, in order to develop and grow their business, they essentially need two things; consistent action on the ground and access to, or greater penetration of, markets that they have not yet conquered.

“Thanks to our comprehensive detailed trade database, combined with our 25-year history of successfully selling to the automotive aftermarket, Advantage delivers tangible returns on investment and detailed market insight.”

“Advantage is uniquely placed to drive forward OE sales on behalf of our clients in a controlled manner – making sure their message and value proposition is delivered consistently to their customers.”