Motability Operations has appointed James Douglas as its new manufacturer and network partnerships director.

Currently sales director at Volkswagen, he will join Motability Operations in the autumn to lead the company’s manufacturer and dealer teams.

Damian Oton, Motability Operations chief commercial officer, said: “The automotive industry is evolving, significantly and at pace.

“Manufacturer-dealer relationships are changing, the transition to EVs is complex, there’s an explosion of new market entrants and more. It brings exciting opportunities and an impact on our customers’ experience.

“James has more than 20 years’ experience in the industry, with expertise across a range of senior and board-level positions.

“He will develop and deliver our dealer and manufacturer strategy, building on the existing partnerships we have and developing new ones, ensuring we continue to provide a market-leading leasing product with outstanding levels of customer service and satisfaction.”

Douglas had moved to the new role within the Volkswagen Group as head of sales operations for VW UK in April, 2021. 

Having held the equivalent role in VW’s commercial vehicle division since 2017, Douglas replaced Patrick McGillycuddy.

He said: “I’ve spent the last 20 years working for manufacturers’ national sales companies and I’m proud to have supported the Motability Scheme throughout my many years in the industry.

“I have a long-standing professional and personal respect for the scheme and the life-changing impact it has for so many people.

“Car manufacturers are moving into an EV future, while at the same time developing distribution structures to engage customers in digital environments, and I’m excited to help Motability Operations navigate through the market changes. I’m really looking forward to getting stuck in to make sure we achieve the best possible outcomes for customers.”

Douglas started out as a car salesman and has since held many senior positions in the automotive industry.

He has also served on the boards of Nissan GB, Audi UK, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.