Mr Maddocks will succeed Steve Robertson, who will take over the position as senior leader for key corporate projects before his retirement in 2016.

Colin Maddocks started at Mazda in 2005 as director network development and financing and was appointed director financial services in 2009 before becoming part of the company’s executive team last year.

In his new position he will report to president and CEO of Mazda Motor Europe, Jeff Guyton, who said: “Colin brings a wealth of experience in dealer network development, finance and business strategy to his new role. He is the ideal candidate to take over from Steve Robertson.”

Steve Robertson joined Mazda in 2001 as financial director at Mazda Motors UK. From 2005 to 2009, he served as director business strategy and later as vice president business strategy & information systems at Mazda Motor Europe.

“Setting up several national sales companies and leading the company’s IT and Finance activities, Steve greatly contributed to our success in Europe. We are especially pleased that we can continue to benefit from his skills and expertise in key corporate projects,” said Mr Guyton.

Colin Maddocks will be replaced as director financial services by Stephan Reeve, presently senior manager financial services at MME.