Cox Automotive, which includes brands such as Manheim, has announced a series of senior appointments.

Michael Buxton becomes chief operating officer (COO) for Cox Automotive’s International operations effective 1 July 2018.

The changes will see Michael Buxton, currently UK chief executive officer (CEO) at Cox Automotive, transition to the role of chief operating officer (COO) for Cox Automotive’s International operations effective 1 July 2018.

As COO International, Michael Buxton will work alongside John Bailey, president of Cox Automotive International and original founder of Manheim UK, in a role that spans businesses in the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the Far East.

Buxton has worked for Cox Automotive for 23 years and has held the title of CEO UK for four years, during which time he has led the organisation through a period of significant growth.

Michael Buxton said: “Cox Automotive is a fantastic business that I am proud to work for, it is built on strong family values and a culture of customer first that guides the way we work across our global operations. I am delighted to be stepping up into this international role to continue to build on our success across many markets.”

His former role as UK CEO at Cox is being assumed by Martin Forbes, managing director of Modix, incadea and Motors.co.uk in the UK, who is also currently serving in an expanded role as COO of Cox Automotive UK.

Cox Automotive has also announced the appointment of Manheim UK’s new managing director following the departure of Tim Hudson.

Bell joins Manheim from Jaguar Land Rover where he held the role of global financial services director. Prior to this, he was chief operating officer at Volkswagen Financial Services.

Bell said: “My focus will be on helping our customers to grow their businesses using Manheim’s comprehensive offering, as it is the only remarketing business in the UK that offers complete end-to-end value creating solutions and is uniquely placed to offer its customers a forward-thinking remarketing service.”