Harrison returns to SEAT UK from a three and a half year stint at SEAT SA near Barcelona, Spain, where he has worked as group sales director, West Europe and more lately as dealer network development director, worldwide.  

He first joined SEAT UK in 2007 as head of sales operations, having previously worked in senior sales and marketing roles for Renault in the UK.

He said: "I'm delighted to be returning home to SEAT in the UK, where development of the brand has continued, taking us past the landmark 2% market share milestone last year. With our strongest ever model line-up and a first SUV arriving in 2016, I am looking forward to working with the UK team and all of our dealer partners to continue the momentum."

Volkswagen Group UK managing director Paul Willis added: "I'm delighted to welcome Richard back to the UK team. He will bring significant insight to our factory and international relationships, which will build on the recent achievements of the brand under Neil's tenure. I would like to congratulate Neil on his imminent move and thank him for leading SEAT to its recent victories, achieving record sales and market share for SEAT UK."