Volkswagen Group UK has named Damien O’Sullivan as its recent managing director from December.
O’Sullivan steps into the role following Alex Smith’s departure, who leaves the corporate at his own request after nearly 15 years of service.
O’Sullivan joins Volkswagen Group UK from Volkswagen Group Ireland, where he has served as Audi brand director since 2021.
His extensive experience inside Volkswagen Group spans a series of international roles, including vice chairman of dealer development on the FAW-Volkswagen three way partnership in Changchun, China, and Audi aftersales director on the national sales company in Taiwan.
His early profession began as a credit analyst at AIB Capital Markets in Dublin, before joining Volkswagen Group Ireland in 2009 as a finance controller and later moving into sales and aftersales roles.
Stefan Specht, chairman of the Volkswagen Group UK Supervisory Board, expressed confidence in O’Sullivan’s appointment:
“I’m delighted that Damien has agreed to tackle this recent role as managing director of Volkswagen Group UK, and am confident he’s well-positioned to steer the UK’s biggest automotive group through the numerous changes we all know are ahead.”
He also acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing managing director: “I’d prefer to thank Alex for his dedication and big contribution over the past six years, and I wish him all the very best for the long run.”
Reflecting on his time with the corporate, Alex Smith said, “I’m very pleased with every little thing the team and the networks have achieved in a period which has included Brexit, a pandemic, a supply crisis, and the introduction of mass-market electromobility.”
He noted the corporate’s recent achievements, with Volkswagen holding the position of the UK’s leading passenger automotive brand, Audi because the second hottest, and Škoda and Seat/Cupra achieving record market shares this 12 months.
He added: “With Volkswagen Industrial Vehicles within the number two position within the van market, it looks like the correct time at hand over to Damien to proceed constructing on Volkswagen Group’s market-leading performance within the UK.”
This Article First Appeared At www.am-online.com
