New Kia UK boss announced

Kia has appointed Michael Cole as its new UK managing director. He takes over the position in August when current managing director Paul Philpott becomes chief operating officer of Kia Motors Europe.

Cole joins the brand from Toyota where he was UK sales director, having gained significant experience during his 15 years with the Japanese brand across sales, marketing and aftersales.

Ford and Toyota background
Cole, a qualified accountant, started his career with Ford where he spent 10 years in its dealer network. At Toyota he held a number of field-based roles in business management and area sales before taking on office roles within Toyota Financial Services and Fleet Sales.

In 2001 he moved to a marketing role as manager of sales and market planning before becoming southern region general manager in 2002 and general manager of aftersales in 2003.

Cole reported into Philpott when he was commercial director of Toyota prior to taking the top job at Kia in February 2007.

Manufacturer and network
"Michael has clearly demonstrated that he has the enthusiasm, the experience, the capabilities and the vision to continue the growth of Kia in the UK and to further develop the service provided to the dealer network," said Philpott.

"Like me, he firmly believes that at the heart of any franchise has to be a strong partnership between the manufacturer and the dealer network. I am confident that our UK operation is in very good hands and the progress made in recent years will continue to accelerate."

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