Staff from OEMs and dealer groups have shared tributes following the sudden death of Stellantis UK’s director answerable for parts operations, Andy Robson.
Robson spent 40 years with Vauxhall and Stellantis, and the vehicle manufacturer said it’s “with great sadness” that it shares the news of his death last week.
He shall be much missed by friends and colleagues, and had made “a long-lasting and meaningful contribution to our organisation,” Stellantis UK said in an announcement..
“He was an exceptional leader and a highly respected colleague, but above all, Andy was known for his kindness, integrity, hard working nature and the real care he showed for those around him. Andy had a huge effect on his teams and on the broader business, and his loss shall be felt deeply by all who had the privilege of working with him. At this very difficult time, our thoughts are with Andy’s family, friends, and colleagues. He shall be remembered with great respect and fondness.”
In 2020, in an interview with Automotive Management, when he was network development director, Robson said an important thing he had learned in his profession was “to recognise that although our business is the sale of vehicles, service and parts, we’re really within the people business. We provide the identical opportunity to many individual and group investors across the UK and the important thing difference between the highest 25% and the underside 25% are the individuals who operate the business.”
On LinkedIn, dozens and dozens of executives from dealer groups and OEMs have expressed their sadness on the news and offered their sympathies to Robson’s wife and youngsters.
Stellantis UK senior vp and group managing director Eurig Druce said: “Andy dedicated 40 years to the Vauxhall and Stellantis family, leaving an indelible mark on our organisation. He was not only an exceptional leader, but in addition a deeply respected colleague, mentor, and friend to so many.”
His colleague Stephanie Howson, director of network development, customer experience and training, added: “That is so heart breaking, an enormous loss for all of us, but nothing in comparison with the large loss for Emma, Maisie and Archie. A real gentlemen who shall be really missed by all.”
Steve Bessex, chief executive of AM100 dealer group Drive Motor Retail, said: “Andy was essentially the most real and nicest person you might wish to fulfill . I even have known him for just about all of those 40 years and never heard a nasty word from him or about him. God bless you Andy and best wishes at this terrible time to his family.”
And Colin Start, marketing director for parts and repair at Stellantis UK, said: “I had the experience of working very closely with Andy for the last 6 years. Often sharing fun and a grumble, but I all the time remember Andy for being so focused on the duty in hand. Thanks for the kindness, enthusiasm and holiday suggestions you shared along your journey. Rest well my friend.”
This Article First Appeared At www.am-online.com
