Ford of Britain has promoted Lisa Brankin to sales director, replacing Kevin Griffin.

She has been the brand’s marketing director since August 2015.

Griffin is retiring from the blue oval, following a 40-year career with the brand - including time as fleet director.

Brankin will be responsible for all of Ford’s sales distribution channels, including the Ford dealer network and online sales, in the United Kingdom.

She joined Ford as a graduate trainee and has held various roles within Ford’s sales and marketing function in Britain, Europe and at the global level.

As dealer operations director, Brankin was responsible for all sales support and dealer representation activities in the UK, including the implementation of Transit Specialist Dealer Centres and rolling out the FordStore initiative, a network of upgraded, new-look dealerships where customers can experience the full range of Ford vehicles and services.

She will continue report to Andy Barratt, chairman and managing director, Ford of Britain.

“Lisa has shown great leadership as our marketing lead in the UK over the past three years, and I know she is the right person to take on the challenges and opportunities on the sales front in what is Ford’s largest market in Europe,” said Barratt.

Brankin’s replacement is yet to be announced.