Avis Budget Group has appointed Keith Rankin as president of the international region as the business moves towards digitising its business and on revolutionising the future of mobility.

Keith Rankin, president of the international region at Avis Budget Group

The role will see Rankin head up Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) as well as Asia, Australia and New Zealand, drawing on more than 20 years’ experience at Avis Budget Group.

He started his career at Avis in 1998 where he led the financial planning department. In 2000, Keith was involved in the purchase of Avis businesses in Norway and Sweden, then later appointed as chief executive of Avis Car Rental Southern Africa in 2004.

He worked most recently as chief executive for the automotive division at Barloworld in South Africa – a licensee partner of Avis Budget Group and a distributor of leading global brands, providing integrated rental, fleet management, product support and logistics solutions.

Commenting on his new role, Rankin said: “My journey with Avis Budget Group started over 20 years ago, and I’m delighted to be joining in this new role at such an exciting time. The world of mobility is changing, heightened by advancing technology and the consumer need for a more on-demand and personalised experience. Across the international region – and globally – we are transforming as a business to not only be a part of this shift, but to be a leading voice in the future of mobility.

“We’re making the overall customer journey more transparent, convenient, personalised and seamless. From our Avis and Zipcar mobile apps to connected cars and new offers and processes, we’re focused on providing mobility on-demand where and when you need it. I’m thrilled to be a part of the group as we continue to make these innovations a reality.”