The carmaker said the appointment is part of senior management and organisational changes designed to further strengthen operations in Europe and globally.

Mr Willcox was previously Nissan’s head of sales and marketing for the region until September when he left to head Volkswagen Group operations in the UK.

Mr Willcox will report to Trevor Mann, Nissan global chief performance officer.  His start date will be announced in due course.

Trevor Mann commented: ‘I am delighted about Paul's appointment. With his deep knowledge of Nissan and strong leadership, I am confident that Paul will succeed in achieving our European performance objectives.’