Kia appoints new fleet boss as John Hargreaves announces retirement

Kia has announced the appointment of Dave Williams as its new head of fleet. He takes over from John Hargreaves who is preparing for retirement after joining the manufacturer in 2011.

Williams (pictured left with Hargreaves right) will take over all aspects of the role, from fleet sales and remarketing to business-specific areas of the company, including Kia Rental, Motability and PBV sales.

This year will see the launch of the EV4, EV5 and PV5 and Kia says his focus will be to introduce these models to new and existing fleet and business customers, as well as continue the manufacturer's momentum across all fleet channels. Williams has 35 years of automotive experience, the last 20 years with Kia.

His career in automotive spans numerous roles from sales and general manager within dealerships, to sales consultant, coach and trainer, working with various automotive brands. He joined Kia in 2005 as national dealer marketing manager, before switching to regional business manager (RBM) in 2008 and then national business manager in 2011.

In 2017, Williams started his current role as Kia's area manager for the south, where he was responsible for the sales performance of 101 dealerships, while managing a team of RBMs.

Commenting on his new role, Williams said: “It has been my privilege to work for Kia over the past 20 years, and I very much look forward to returning to the fleet side of the business.

“The key to that success has been the people: the team and leadership, of which John has been integral. He has led the fleet team with incredible knowledge and foresight – something I hope to emulate as Kia enters its next chapter.”

Williams adds: “I very much look forward to leading the team and I wish John every heartfelt success and best wishes for the future and his retirement.”