Commercial vehicle distributer Harris Group has appointed Andrew Lawson as managing director for its Harris Maxus UK division.

Andrew Lawson, new managing director for Harris Maxus UK

The appointment forms a major part of plans for further growth that deliver a raft of changes to company operations. These include bringing its entire Irish and UK marketing functions in-house. Harris group, which distributes brands including Isuzu, Maxus and Higer along with upcoming product lines, is also appointing a new legal counsel.

Lawson has a 20-year career in the commercial vehicle industry and has held pivotal roles including sales director at Mercedes-Benz UK and director of fleet at Mercedes-Benz USA.

In his new role, he will lead Harris Maxus UK’s growth initiatives and support the dealer network, leading a new dedicated team of Harris Maxus staff based in the UK.

His appointment is designed to stabilise the company’s success, prepare for future growth, and enhance investment in people and relevant processes.

Harris Maxus said Lawson’s background in developing innovative fleet strategies, his professionalism and relationship with the franchise dealer network and work with industry-leading clients globally will be instrumental in driving its continued success.

His appointment also marks a significant step in advancing Harris Group’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the electric vehicle sector. He will report directly to group managing director Brian Patterson.

Andrew Lawson commented: “Joining Maxus UK at such an exciting time is a fantastic opportunity to work with our talented team and dealer partners. Together, we will deliver innovative, customer-focused solutions that will assist the growth at profitable levels for Maxus and the dealer partners.”

Harris Group is also bringing its entire marketing function in-house in a move to drive growth and strengthen support for dealer partners. New marketing managers for Harris Maxus UK and Harris Group Ireland will join from this month, with plans to expand resources and further boost marketing capabilities.

Harris Group is also strengthening its compliance and governance framework with the addition of a new legal counsel. This appointment will bolster the Group’s capacity to ensure the highest standards in all aspects of operations.

“Our commitment to strengthening Harris Group’s foundations and positioning the company for a dynamic future is deeply rooted in our history and vision,” said Brian Patterson, managing director of Harris Group.

“Since Pino founded the company in 1961, we’ve grown into a market leader across Ireland, the UK and Malta. With these strategic changes, we are confident of driving growth while continuing to deliver the exceptional sales experience, customer focus and after-sales service that has been a hallmark of Harris Group for over sixty years.”