Avis Budget Group has appointed Alan Olivier-Smith as general manager of its UK business.

Alan Olivier-Smith, general manager UK at Avis Budget Group

Olivier-Smith assumed the role at the end of 2020 and is responsible for Avis Budget Group’s car and van rental business within the UK, reporting directly to Nina Bell, managing director (Northern Europe).

Olivier-Smith joined Avis Budget Group in 2015 to head up the Group’s UK commercial vehicles business, before taking on an expanded role as European director of commercial vehicles in 2017.

His appointment follows on from two European leadership changes, including the appointment of Laurent Sculier as managing director Central and Western Europe, and Martin Gruber as vice president, commercial.

Alan Olivier-Smith said of his new role: “It is no understatement to say that the last year has been testing for all. While we’ll continue to face challenges over the coming months, I’m looking forward to leading the UK business through this period, ensuring we are positioned strongly to take full advantage of the opportunities that will arise when consumer demand returns.”

Olivier Smith said Avis Budget had seen strong demand for commercial vehicles as a result of the pandemic

“Our dedicated van business continues to grow, playing a key role in supporting government, e-commerce and industry to keep essential businesses and services operating securely and safely.”

He added: “We also know that our customers see car rental as a flexible, private, and safe alternative to public transport. With the introduction of services like digital check-in, customers can be reassured that we are putting their and our employees’ safety first by providing an increasingly contactless and speedy rental experience.”