Former Skoda head of fleet and Volkswagen Group head of group fleet services Patrick McGillycuddy has been appointed head of sales operations by Volkswagen UK.

McGillycuddy, who has most recently worked in a strategic role for Volkswagen Group UK, will start in the role on February 1.

He said: “I’m really excited to be joining Volkswagen at such a vibrant time.

"The brand has just moved into second place in the UK new car sales chart, driven by the most intense product offensive in its history.

"And our retailer network has also played a huge part, delivering a future oriented customer experience and ever-improving service.

"I am looking forward to working with our network, especially as we prepare for the launch of the pure electric I.D. range in 2020.”

McGillycuddy replaces Rod McLeod, who after more than 21 years with the Volkswagen brand (including more than a decade as head of marketing) has taken up a new role within Volkswagen Group UK as director of Škoda UK.