Alex Smith is to become managing director of Volkswagen Group UK in the New Year, marking his return to the group after two years at Nissan.

Alex Smith becomes managing director of Volkswagen Group UK in January 2019

He replaces Paul Willis who is leaving the company to take on a new role, yet to be announced, following five years as managing director and, previously, as a director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars. Willis will stay on into the first quarter of 2019 to ensure a smooth transition.

Smith started his motor industry career as a sales and marketing graduate at Ford before moving on to roles in GM Daewoo and then Kia. He started at Volkswagen Group UK in 2007, heading successively the functions of Group Parts Operations and Retail Operations for Volkswagen Passenger Cars, before becoming director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK in November 2011. On 1 July 2014 he was appointed as director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars UK, reporting to Paul Willis.

Commenting on his appointment, Smith said: “I am very pleased to be returning to Volkswagen Group UK, especially at such a challenging yet exciting time for both the company and the automotive industry in general. Thanks to huge levels of investment, particularly in the field of e-mobility, the group is well positioned for a strong future.”