Movers and shakers: new changes across the aftermarket

Name:Chris Tocher

Company: Klipboard

Role: Chief customer support officer

Klipboard has appointed Chris Tocher as chief customer support officer, as Chris Owen steps down from his role to retire.

Tocher, who joined Klipboard in September 2025 in preparation for Owen’s retirement, now steps into the role. Since joining, Tocher has led Klipboard’s Technical Support, Cloud Hosting, Managed Services, Professional Services and Client Success teams.

He brings 20+ years of leadership experience spanning support, cloud and on-premise operations, service implementation, supply chain management and customer success for global enterprises. His career includes senior leadership positions at Cisco and IMImobile, most recently leading global Client Services and Operations functions.

“Chris is an exceptional leader with a deep understanding of what it takes to deliver high-performing, global customer support,” said Ian Bendelow, CEO at Klipboard. “Since joining Klipboard, he has already made a significant impact across our customer-facing teams. His experience, values and passion for developing people make him the ideal person to take on this role as we continue to scale and support our customers worldwide.”

“I’m honoured to take on this role and to build on the incredible work that has been delivered over the years,” said Tocher. “Klipboard has a strong customer-first culture and I’m excited to continue developing our global support teams while ensuring our customers receive outstanding service at every stage of their journey."

Name: Fay Ryder

Company: Banner

Role: Business development manager

Following a three-year absence, Fay Ryder is making a welcome return to her position as business development manager with Banner.

Rejoining the Banner GB team from Toyota, Ryder will look to build on the growth and success that Banner is currently enjoying across the Southwest and Ireland, it said.

Reporting once again to country manager Lee Quinney, Ryder's role will also focus heavily on delivering Banner’s bespoke customer training courses relating to all things batteries to motor factors, workshops and garages.

Quinney said: “It’s great to announce that Fay is once again joining the Banner GB team at what amounts to an exciting stage in the company’s ongoing success story here in the UK aftermarket. With her knowledge of the territory and customer base that she helped bult up with Banner over her eight years with the company, I am confident she will use her renewed energy for the position to great effect.”

Ryder added: “I am thrilled to have been given the chance to rejoin Banner GB following my stint with Toyota. It really does feel like I’m going back to my family, not just in terms of colleagues but also customers. My aim is to literally hit the ground running, whilst using my experience and contacts to help further develop Banner’s market standing in what amounts to an important territory that also represents an ongoing opportunity for expansive growth.

My focus shall be on promoting four key principles – Banner’s O/E product quality aligned to price competitiveness, delivering outstanding levels of customer service, and nurturing long-standing and successful customer relationships.”

Name: Adam Linforth

Company: TPS

Role: Head of parts sales operations

TPS has appointed a new head of parts sales operations.

Adam Linforth began this month and, according to TPS, brings with him a wealth of industry experience.

Linforth had previously been employed by car maker JLR (Jaguar Land Rover) for 24 years, working across aftersales, franchising, sales, strategy both in the UK and globally.

Linforth started his career with Brown Brothers progressing to the Ford Parts Plus programme, driving the adoption of genuine Ford parts by independent motor traders and playing a major role in maximising retailer partner performance.

Since joining TPS in September 2025, the firm says Linforth has already brought meaningful contributions to TPS’s performance and operations.

He has now moved into the more senior role. Within this, Linforth has taken on responsibility for running the TPS operation, including the ‘Brands at TPS’ activities, and is also overseeing the Body Repair activities across all the Volkswagen Group brands.

Linforth said: “I am excited to be part of the TPS team. There’s a great buzz amongst everyone I have spoken to, both in Head Office and our network and I am really looking forward to this new challenge within the group.

“My first impressions so far are extremely positive. I have been really taken by the passion of everyone I talk to at TPS, and the shared excitement that comes from the many opportunities out there for us all to capture new business.”

“As we move forward, I’m keen to see more of how our business operates and how I can support the TPS centre network teams and my fellow TPS colleagues to drive our collective performance over the coming months.”

Name: Annick Jourdenais

Company: LKQ Synetiq

Role: Managing director

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Annick Jourdenais has been appointed as the managing director of new dismantling and recycling firm LKQ Synetiq.

Jourdenais was previously the chief financial officer of LKQ Euro Car Parts, and has some 12 years of experience in the aftermarket sector.

Chief among her responsibilities will be ramping up the deliveries of recycled OEM parts to garages, body shops and insurance companies for the new joint-venture – formed out of a partnership between aftermarket giant LKQ and IAA firm Synetiq earlier this year.

Synetiq dismantled some 27,000 car across four UK sites last year.

"The automotive repair industry stands at a critical juncture," said Jourdenais. "We need to make vehicle repair more sustainable, more efficient and more affordable while managing the complexity of electric vehicles and rising regulatory requirements.

"My priority is to build the operational capability and strategic partnerships that turn circular economy principles into practical, everyday solutions - delivering real commercial value for workshops and insurers while reducing environmental impact across the repair chain."

Names: Paul Cunningham, Mhamed Ghzel, Pat Travers

Company: The Turbo Guy

Roles: Finance director (Cunningham), production manager (Ghzel), operations manager (Travers)

The Turbo Guy has bolstered its management team following a significant expansion that has seen it acquire Huddersfield-based firm Turbocharger Service alongside establishing a new distribution hub.

Paul Cunningham joins The Turbo Guy as a finance director, coming from a global heavy engineering manufacturer, and has more than 35 years' experience in the industry.

Mhamed Ghzel, the firm's new production manager, is a turbo specialist with more than 15 years' experience, having previously managed a remanufacturing site in Tunisia.

Travers, previously The Turbo Guy's sales manager, has been promoted to operations manager.

Allan Mitchell, founder and managing director of The Turbo Guy, said: "On the management front, having Paul and Mhamed on board is already delivering benefits to our business, as they both bring a wealth of industry expertise. Together with the promotion of Pat Travers to the new role of operations manager, our team is well positioned to develop the business further next year and we look forward to building The Turbo Guy brand across the aftermarket."

Name: Marco Meliga

Company: Dayco

Role: Managing director, EMEA Aftermarket

Dayco has appointed Marco Meliga as its new managing director. He will report to CEO Craig Frohock.

Meliga joins with considerable experience of both the original equipment and aftermarket sectors. Over the past six years he has been the CEO of the Algo Group, managing director of the Facet Group and most recently CEO of the Rototech Group.

Commenting on his appointment, Meliga said: “I am delighted to join such a technologically advanced and well respected manufacturer, and look forward to building strong relationships within the Dayco family and with our valued partners.

"Dayco EMEA Aftermarket delivered strong results over several years, a position that I believe, with the team of dedicated professionals that we have throughout the business, we can build on.

"Although the automotive industry, and subsequently the aftermarket, is going through significant change, which obviously present its challenges, I believe we have the talent and drive within the business to look at the future with great optimism and expectation. I therefore look forward to beginning the journey.”

Meliga takes over from Ruggero Semola (pictured below), who retired at the end of October.

Semola worked for Dayco since 2019, and has overseen an increase in revenue of more than 50%. He also sat on the board of Dayco Europe.

"It has been an honor to have been part of the Dayco family, and although we have had to face some sizable challenges over the last six years, as a team, we have overcome the difficulties and enjoyed much success together," said Semola.

Name: Phil Butcher

Company: UPG UK & Ireland

Role: Business development manager

Parts distributor UPG UK & Ireland, has appointed Phillip Butcher as its new business development manager for the South-East England region.

With almost 40 years in the automotive aftermarket, Butcher’s wealth of expertise will be instrumental to UPG’s future initiatives, having previously worked in roles at Charlie Brown’s Autocentre, PartCo, Brown Brothers, FPS Distribution and Continental.

Butcher said: “I chose UPG for their forward-thinking views with a touch of old-school customer care. Combined with fantastic new ranges and opportunities, I couldn’t possibly turn the opportunity down”

He added “Between me and UPG, both our goals and expectations have aligned consistently. I’m looking forward to working with my new team and contributing to UPG’s reputation as the UK’s leading automotive aftermarket parts supplier”

Butcher’s new role will include prioritising the promotion of the UPG brand, building fresh opportunities and continuing to deliver dependable service to all customers.

Martin Butterworth, managing director of UPG UK & Ireland, said: “We’re delighted to have Phillip on board as our new Business Development Manager. With this appointment, UPG has bolstered its workforce and set the foundations for a brighter future. Phillip is a valuable addition to our team, and we look forward to building on our future success together.”

Names: Lee Gratton, Darren Wykes

Company: Motor Parts Direct

Role: Managing director

Motor Parts Direct has appointed Lee Gratton (pictured above) as its new managing director following the retirement of Darren Wykes.

Wykes leaves the company after 26 years in charge, having co-founded it in 1999. It has since set up a network of more than 180 branches and become one of the UK aftermarket's leading independent distributors.

He is replaced by Lee Gratton, who has spent some 28 years working in the aftermarket, including having founded Spartan Motor Factors in 2010.

Wykes said: "MPD has always been my baby, nurtured from its humble beginnings into a business that has far exceeded expectations, thanks to the fantastic and talented people involved. I am confident that the strong leadership team in place, along with Lee’s experience and drive, will ensure MPD continues to flourish in the years ahead."

Name: Jamie Willis

Company: A1 ADAS Group

Role: Business relationship manager

A1 ADAS Group has appointed Jamie Willis as its business relationship manager as the firm has doubled in size over the past year.

It said the appointment was fuelled by a desire to strengthen its customer service and ties with its clients, on the back of that growth.

"Finding the right person for this role was about more than experience," said managing director Iain Molloy. "We wanted someone who truly understands our ethos. A1 is not a standard corporate. We’re professional and highly accountable, but we operate with a family ethos that puts relationships first. Jamie gets that completely. He brings technical credibility, industry knowledge and a trusted reputation, making him a perfect fit for our customers and our team."

Willis added: "Equipment is only as good as the person operating it. I’ve already seen, for example, that the remote diagnostics team responds almost immediately to jobs; that’s not common in this industry. It means I can tell customers what to expect and know, with full integrity, that the service they receive is likely to exceed those expectations."

Name: Darren Leppard

Company: Autotech Recruit

Role: Head of revenue and operations

Autotech Recruit appointed Darren Leppard to the newly created role of head of revenue and operations.

In his new position, Leppard will oversee Autotech Recruit and Autotech Academy – two of the four Autotech Group brands - leading a team of consultants.

Many of these consultants have been with the business since its early days and bring deep knowledge of the automotive sector, which will complement Leppard's extensive background in recruitment, said the firm.

Leppard joins the company with a wealth of expertise in delivering temporary, contract, and permanent staffing solutions across multiple sectors. His appointment comes at a pivotal time for the business, which continues to evolve and expand its offering to meet the ever-changing needs of the automotive industry.

Name: Werner Töpfl

Company: Banner

Role: CEO

After more than three decades of leadership by Andreas and Thomas Bawart, Banner is entering a new chapter, having appointed Werner Töpfl as its new CEO. This is the first time in its 88-year-old history that an external CEO has been hired.

The leadership change is the result of a long-term planned and structured transition, said Banner. The aim is to maintain stability, whilst delivering strategic new initiatives. Over the past two years, Töpfl has been responsible for key areas such as finance, IT, supply chain, production control, and sustainability.

Töpfl said: “Banner is to stand out visibly from the competition through quality, customer proximity, speed, and clear decisions – innovative, sustainable, profitable,” he said.

Whilst the previous managing directors are withdrawing from the operational side of the business, they remain closely tied to the company as owners. The change signifies ongoing progress and an obvious focus on the future.

Commenting on behalf of Banner GB, country manager Lee Quinney said: “I am confident that Werner has the credentials required to successfully deliver Banner’s goals that form its Agenda 2030 strategy.

Through his association with the business over the past two years, he obviously has obviously gained a clear understanding of Banner’s operational capabilities, and we are looking forward to working with him by continuing to build on the outstanding and ongoing success that Banner enjoys here in the UK.”

Name: Darren Frogson

Company: Verification of Lubricant Specifications (UK) Ltd (VLS)

Role: Chairman

The Verification of Lubricant Specifications (VLS) has appointed Darren Frogson, a 30-year veteran of the lubricants sector, as its new chairman.

Frogson replaces Harald Oosting, who has left VLS to become the president of the UK Lubricants Association.

Frogson is head CEO of Exol Lubricants, one of the UK's largest manufacturers of lubricants.

VLS company secretary David Wright said: "We look forward to working with Darren and maintaining VLS’s work to ensure the continued confidence and trust of end users in the lubricant products they use. With rising case numbers and an increasingly complex market, VLS's work to uphold standards and protect and educate end users is more important than ever."

Name: David McLean

Company: Duckhams

Role: Chief marketing officer

Oil maker Duckhams has appointed David McLean as its new chief marketing officer.

McLean joints the British lubricant brand with more than 30 years of commercial experience across the UK and global markets. Previous roles include nine years at Castrol.

"I am delighted to welcome David to our growing team," Mike Bewsey, CEO of Duckhams, said. “During his career, David has worked with many high-profile global brands, including BP, Britvic, Heinz, and Miele, delivering double-digit growth and profitability while reducing SKU complexity and driving market expansion.

"With expertise spanning FMCG, category management, sales and marketing strategies and consumer proposition development, I am sure David will play a pivotal role in delivering our ambitious growth strategy.”

Name: Cade Galvin

Company: Alliance Automotive Group UK and Ireland

Role: Chief financial officer

Cade Galvin has been appointed as the new CFO for the UK and Ireland arm of the Alliance Automotive Group, following the retirement of John Coombes.

Coombes is stepping down after 24 years in the role, having overseen more than 100 business acquisitions during his tenure.

"His efforts have undoubtedly supported the execution of our strategic goals, building a solid foundation for the continued growth of the business," said Steve Richardson, managing director of AAG UK&I.

Galvin assumes the role having already spent a decade with the firm.

Name: Pete Brookes

Company: LKQ Bodyshop

Role: Sales director

LKQ Bodyshop has appointed Pete Brookes as sales director, a new role focused on delivering the company’s strategy to be become a market leader.

Brookes, who has been divisional director at LKQ Euro Car Parts for 13 years and first joined the business as a branch manager, will report into managing director Chris O’Rourke.

O’Rourke said: “What continues to impress me most is the commitment our team shows in building strong relationships. Adding values by being agile, listening while supporting each individual needs, always with the goal of supporting sustainable & profitable growth”

“That dedication is reflected in the entrepreneurial and innovative spirit we see across our industry, and together it creates powerful partnerships uniquely placed to drive progress and shape the future of the repair market. Pete’s appointment will strengthen our ability to harness that combination, ensuring we remain fully aligned with the needs of every partner.”

Brookes said: “I’m delighted to be joining the LKQ Bodyshop team at such a pivotal time for the industry. Rapid technological advancements in the UK vehicle parc, combined with a sharper focus on sustainability – from reducing operating costs to minimising environmental impact – are reshaping the way Bodyshop's do business, and that includes growing interest in and demand for remanufactured and recycled parts.

“My priority is to work with all Bodyshop's – from independent operators to national groups – to understand their priorities and ensure their voices continue to be heard at every level of our business. This is about leveraging our expertise and resources to develop tailored solutions will make a real difference to the work they deliver, the customer experience they offer and ultimately, to their bottom line.”

Name: Mike Hills

Company: Klipboard

Role: General Manager for UK & Ireland

Klipboard has appointed Mike Hills as general manager for the UK & Ireland.

With nearly 20 years of leadership, Hills brings a powerhouse of experience in scaling software businesses, driving customer success and delivering operational excellence.

His appointment signals Klipboard’s intent to deepen its footprint in the UK & Ireland and unlock new growth opportunities, said the firm.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Mike to the Klipboard leadership team” said James Mitchell, CEO Europe. “His customer-first mindset and proven ability to lead high-performing teams make him the ideal person to spearhead our next phase of growth in the region.”

Most recently, Hills served as chief customer officer at Phocas Software, a Klipboard partner, where he led global teams across professional services, customer success, support and operations.

Hills said: "I’m excited to join Klipboard at such a dynamic time. The opportunity to help shape the future of Klipboard and support customers across the UK & Ireland is incredibly energising. I look forward to working with the team to deliver even more value to our users and partners."

Name: Scott Maclean

Company: KYB UK

Role: Business manager

KYB UK has appointed Scott Maclean as its new business manager.

In this role, Maclean will be looking after customers across the North of England and Scotland and working closely with a variety of accounts.

“We’re really pleased to have Scott on board,” said Romin Nassiri, senior sales manager at KYB UK.

“He brings with him a wealth of customer facing experience and a strong track record of success - these skills align with our business goals of growth and expansion for the years ahead".

With over a decade of experience in the commercial vehicle sector, Maclean most recently held the role of business development manager at Ferdinand Bilstein, where he led the development of effective sales and marketing strategies and managed a portfolio of 200 accounts.

“I’d like to thank KYB for the opportunity to join such a well-respected company, known not just for the quality of its products, but for the strength of its people and the value and support it brings to its customers," said Scott.

“Having worked in the commercial vehicle sector, transitioning into passenger car is a new challenge I’m excited to take on. I’m really eager to learn, grow and develop in this space.

"I’m looking forward to getting out on the road and meeting many of you over the coming weeks and months. It’s the beginning of what I hope will be strong, long-term relationships.”

Name: Stuart Bullen

Company: Ring

Role: Head of ACE global product management

Ring has promoted Stuart Bullen to head of ACE global product management.

In his new role, Bullen will be responsible for delivering premium quality automotive accessory products to global markets. He has already had an active role in driving through the brand new ULTRAINFLATE product range, which was launched earlier this year and has been received with great acclaim in the aftermarket.

Bullen said: “Ring is very supportive of any new ideas and I love being able to take those ideas and turning them into a reality. Something that sets us apart from other companies is the passion we all have to deliver the very best products.

“The focus for us this year is our tyre care portfolio, with some great new products already launched with the ULTRAINFLATE range and more to come. There are also some exciting new launches on the way in other categories, as well as some brand new categories for the business, so this year is going to be a big one for us!”

Name: Steve McDonald / Connor Roberts

Company: Autowave

Role: Technical support

Autowave, one of the leading providers of car keys and programming equipment in the UK, has Steve McDonald amd Connor Roberts to its technical support team.

McDonald is a seasoned master technician with nearly four decades of hands-on experience.

“It’s been exciting, interesting but daunting,” McDonald said of his first few days. “Coming from 38 years on the tools into a desk-based technical support role is a total change of scenery – but that’s what appealed to me. I fancied something different.

“The technical knowledge I’ve got will help. It’s a learning curve, especially on the IT side, but the support I’ve had from the team – especially Ravi (Kotecha) and Connor – has been brilliant.”

Roberts, meanwhile, arrives at Autowave with an IT background, which he is using to streamline internal processes, helping to reduce customer response times and steadily building his knowledge of key programming and vehicle electronics.

“Even small changes can make a big difference,” he said.

Boss Ravi Kotecha said: “Our ambition has always been to deliver the best possible experience for our customers – not just through our equipment and services, but with a team that understands the challenges our customers face every day.

“Bringing in people, like Steve and Connor, means we’re committed to raising our standards further. Their skills, professionalism and enthusiasm reflect what Autowave stands for.”

Name: Glenn Hopkins

Company: Hella Gutmann

Role: Southern business development manager

Hella Gutmann appointed diagnostic expert Glenn Hopkins as business development manager for the South of England and South Wales.

Hella says Hopkins brings extensive experience in diagnostics and a strong focus on helping workshops keep pace with today’s advanced vehicle technologies. His arrival follows the 2024 appointment of Matt Brown, who has already become a familiar contact for garages across the North of England and Scotland.

Both Hopkins and Brown hold ADAS IMI Accreditation, underlining their deep technical expertise in one of the fastest-growing areas of vehicle servicing and repair.

“Glenn’s appointment builds on the strong foundations we laid last year with Matt’s arrival,” said Julian Goulding, head of garage equipment at Hella Gutmann. “With both now on board, we’ve significantly strengthened our regional support for workshops, combining practical knowledge with hands-on diagnostic expertise.”

Based near Worthing, Hopkins brings a wealth of experience from previous roles at Bosch, Opus IVS, and Maverick Diagnostics. Known for his technical insight and approachable style, he’s well-positioned to support customers across his region.

“With today’s vehicles, fast and accurate diagnostics are essential for workshop efficiency,” said Hopkins. “We’re here to help garages get the most out of their equipment and make confident decisions when it matters.”

Name: Alan Bodfish

Company: Schaeffler

Role: Sales manager

Schaeffler has appointed Alan Bodfish as sales manager for new look team

Bodfish is experienced within the automotive aftermarket and has worked for a number of prestigious businesses in the aftermarket, such as Delphi, Magneti Marelli and ZF.

Alongside managing an evolving single sales team which covers the whole of the UK and Ireland, Bodfish will also be going out on the road to visit customers, garage owners and technicians to fully understand their requirements and where Schaeffler can assist them best.

Sales and marketing director Matthew Selby said: “Alan has an impressive background and knowledge of the aftermarket, so is a valuable and welcome addition to the Schaeffler team, and we all look forward to working with him.

“He already knows and understands the Schaeffler portfolio, as well as a lot of our customers, from the various other roles he has had during his career, so we know that he’s going to hit the ground running!”

Name: Jesper Møberg

Company: Borg Automotive Group

Role: Chief executive officer

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Borg Automotive Group has appointed Jesper Møberg as chief executive officer. He will replace Kim Kruse Andersen, effective immediately.

Møberg has spent a total of 15 years with BORG Automotive Group, in roles across finance, business development, and leadership. Most recently, Møberg has served as chief financial officer since 2023.

Møberg said: “I am incredibly proud to step into the role as CEO of BORG Automotive Group. I would like to thank all employees for their dedication and hard work. I look forward to building on our achievements and shaping an even stronger BORG Automotive Group."

In his new role, Møberg will lead the Group’s strategic journey under Refine4Future - a new strategic direction focusing on driving sustainable growth and ensuring competitiveness in a rapidly changing market with the goal of strengthening BORG Automotive Group’s position as a leading supplier of remanufactured and newly produced automotive parts.

As part of the transition, Ernst Kildegaard, chief supply chain officer has been promoted to executive vice president. Ernst has made a substantial impact during his time at BORG Automotive Group and has played a key role in driving operational excellence.

Name: Aliya Lam

Company: Delphi

Role: UK country director

Delphi has appointed Aliya Lam as its new UK country director, responsible for growing the part manufacturer's sales and profits in the nation.

Industry veteran Lam was previously head of global sales and marketing for German firm Mahle, and has more than 23 years of experience in the wider aftermarket.

"With a strong brand, dedicated team and a holistic approach to workshop solutions, we’re ideally placed to support our customers and deliver sustainable growth," said Lam. " I’m looking forward to working closely with our partners to strengthen relationships, unlock new opportunities, and continue building on our success."

Name: Fabio Di Nino

Company: Brake Engineering

Role: Regional product manager

Brake Engineering, the brake supplier owned by ZF Aftermarket, has named Fabio Di Nino its new regional product manager for the UK.

He will be responsible for new product launches, regulatory compliance and improving technical support, among other tasks.

Di Nino was previously ZF Services' regional product manager for South Africa, launching the TRW parts brand in that market.

Martyn Houghton, Country Manager IAM for ZF Aftermarket, said: "Fabio brings with him an exceptional blend of aftermarket experience, product knowledge and energy.

"His commitment to building strong customer relationships and driving sustainable product growth makes him a valuable asset to the UK team.

"We’re delighted to welcome him to the team and look forward to the impact he’ll make as we continue to grow the brand."

Name: Joe O’Neill

Company: BM Catalysts

Role: Marketing executive

BM Catalysts has appointed Joe O’Neill as a marketing executive.

In his new role, O’Neill will help shape and deliver marketing strategies that promote BM Catalysts’ vast range of hot end emissions products, it said.

His responsibilities will involve both strategic and operational tasks, from campaign execution and content development to performance monitoring and collaboration across departments.

O’Neill will also play a major part in event planning, helping to enhance the company’s presence across key industry exhibitions and trade shows.

O’Neill said: “When I saw the role, I knew it was the ideal opportunity to take the next step in my career. BM Catalysts’ attention to detail and eagerness to exceed expectations within the automotive industry is clear to see.

“I’m excited to play a part in pushing the business forward as it embraces the opportunities brought about by the ageing vehicle parc by continuing to be Europe’s leading provider of hot end emissions solutions. I also really enjoy the variety of work within the marketing team – every day is different, and that’s what makes it so engaging.”

Tom Vallé, senior marketing manager at BM Catalysts, added: “Joe’s enthusiasm, marketing knowledge and communications experience make him a great addition to our team. As we continue to grow and strengthen our presence in the aftermarket, his contribution will help us better engage with customers and deliver value through clear, consistent messaging.”

Name: Paolo Pierangelo

Company: Dayco

Role: Chief commercial officer

Leading engine products and drive systems supplier Dayco has appointed Paolo Pierangelo  as its new chief commercial officer. He will report to the company’s chief executive officer, Craig Frohock.

Pierangelo joins Dayco from Prima Industrie S.P.A. where he was the vice president, global service and aftermarket. He brings considerable understanding of both the automotive aftermarket and original equipment channels, as well as how to drive strategic growth through a ‘customer first’ mindset, said Dayco.

Pierangelo is local to Turin, Italy, and will be based out of the Dayco Ivrea office, where he will lead the company’s global Commercial Centre of Excellence, supporting all Dayco’s Aftermarket and Belts business units.

Name: Andrew Russell

Company: Banner

Role: Business development manager

Battery and ancillary manufacturer Banner has appointed Andrew Russell as its new business development manager.

Russell, who previously held the same position with Ring Automotive, has more than two decades of experience of the aftermarket. He will now be responsible for improving Banner's sales, particularly in Scotland and Northern England.

Russell said: “I am delighted to get the opportunity to work for Banner, not only as they are one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of original equipment batteries, but a family-owned business. In order to continue to develop Banner’s market penetration across what is an important sales territory, I shall be looking to focus on four key principles – promoting OE product quality aligned to price competitiveness, delivering outstanding levels of customer service, and developing long-standing and successful customer relationships.”

Names: Satty Nanuwa, Shahnaz Alamgir

Company: Repairify

Role: National sales and partnership manager (Nanuwa), product and digital marketing manager (Alamgir)

Diagnostics firm Repairify has hired two new managers responsible for its sales and marketing.

Satty Nanuwa (pictured above, left), previously a business manager for Autoglass, has been named Repairify's new national sales and partnership manager.

Meanwhile, Shahnaz Alamgir (above, right), who has more than a decade of experience in digital marketing, has been named product and digital marketing manager.

"Both Satty and Shahnaz have excellent skill sets that will enable us to accelerate our ambitious growth plans while ensuring our customers receive the highest levels of service and support," said Phil Peace, Repairify's international managing director.

Name: James Shippen

Company: Ring Automotive

Role: Area sales manager

Ring Automotive has appointed James Shippen as its new area sales manager. Shippen had been the company’s senior marketing executive for the past three and a half years.

Shippen will be primarily managing accounts in the North West of England, seeking out new opportunities for business development and growth and arranging workouts with customers.

Shippen has more than 12 years’ experience in marketing, three of which has been at Ring Automotive. He said: “While I’m sad to be leaving the marketing team, I’ve been helping out in the sales department for the past year alongside my marketing responsibilities and I really enjoyed it.

“There’s a lot of transferrable skills from marketing to sales, I always had an interest in the sales aspect of marketing, especially as I specialised in managing stands at events for Ring Automotive.

"Getting out on the road, meeting new and existing customers, building relationships and explaining our products is something I thoroughly enjoy, so once the sales opportunity came up, I had to take it."

Name: Alex Gelbcke

Company: ZF Aftermarket

Role: Head of Europe

ZF Aftermarket has named industry veteran Alex Gelbcke its new head of Europe.

Gelbcke joins the firm from LKQ Europe, where he headed up its operations in the Benelux region and France. He previously spent 18 years at manufacturer Tenneco, where he held roles including general manager and aftermarket vice-president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

"This key appointment marks an important step in our journey to deepen our customer centricity, particularly for our region of Europe," said ZF Aftermarket chief Philippe Colpron. "Alex is a respected professional with 25 years’ experience in the Automotive Aftermarket spanning various vehicle segments. He has comprehensive expertise in both distribution and parts manufacturing and is known for his collaborative leadership and passion for growth."

Gelbcke will begin his new role on 1 May.