Vauxhall managing director Steve Catlin has left the business for private reasons after eight months within the role, prompting a restructure that can see Stellantis UK group managing director Eurig Druce take direct leadership of the brand.
Druce had stepped in to steer Vauxhall before earlier this yr on an interim basis after James Taylor left to go up Nissan.
As a part of the changes, Michael Auliar will join Vauxhall as business director early in the brand new yr, reporting to Druce.
Stellantis said the shift reflects the importance of Vauxhall to its overall UK performance.
Catlin (pictured left) had been tempted back to Vauxhall who had risen to the role of retail sales director at Vauxhall before he left the business in 2015. He had since been working in senior positions for brands like Audi, Seat and Volvo Automotive Financial Services.
When he was appointed earlier this yr, Catlin said: “It’s great to be back working with Vauxhall, which has at all times been a brand near my heart.
“Rather a lot has modified since I used to be last here and not only the décor, however the motor industry as a complete.
“Nevertheless, Vauxhall has at all times stood for practical innovation with a distinctly British voice.
“Now, with a totally electric line-up and a transparent sense of purpose, it’s a superb time to be a part of the journey. I’m looking forward to constructing on the progress we’ve made and the exciting road ahead.”
Auliar’s role as business director follows on from him joining Stellantis in April 2025, working under Zineb Ghout, Peugeot Enlarged Europe SVP, with responsibility for sales and marketing performance in Spain, Portugal, Italy and Belgium.
Before joining Stellantis he spent 27 years at Nissan in sales, marketing and operations roles, including nine years in European assignments in Switzerland, France and the Nordic region.
His final role at Nissan was UK sales director.
Druce said: “Vauxhall is a British brand with a proud history dating back over 120 years to its roots in 1903.
“It’s the home brand for the group and, despite an onslaught of latest competition, is increasing its market share.
“I’m delighted to welcome Michael Auliar to Vauxhall and, together with his strong industry experience, I do know that he’ll proceed this trajectory.”
This Article First Appeared At www.am-online.com
