Vertu Motors Strengthens Senior Leadership Team To Sustain Growth

Vertu Motors Strengthens Senior Leadership Team To Sustain Growth

Ian Wilson Franchise Director for Citroen (right) with Chief Executive Robert Forrester

Vertu Motors plc has made two senior appointments to its leadership team as it continues to consolidate its position in the UK’s motor retail sector.

The Group, which is the third largest automotive retailer in the UK, has promoted Anthony Masterson to Operations Director for BMW & MINI, whilst new hire Ian Wilson has joined as Franchise Director for Citroen.

These strategic appointments come as the Vertu Motors group continues to pursue its growth plans and solidify its dominant position in the UK motor retail sector.

Ian Wilson’s appointment represents a full circle within his career in the industry. One of his first roles in the ‘90s was within Sales at Bristol Street Motors, which was the first acquisition made by Vertu Motors more than 16 years ago.

After ten years at Lookers plc, and previous to that, having held several successful roles within TrustFord and Reg Vardy, Ian joins the Vertu Motors group with a wealth of automotive experience and knowledge. He will now oversee the Group’s Bristol Street Motors Citroen dealerships across the UK and be responsible for driving growth of the brands.

Anthony’s promotion comes following nearly three years as Franchise Director for BMW & MINI, during which time Vertu has become the leading BMW Motorrad retailer in the UK and many of its BMW dealerships have received awards in recognition of their performance from the manufacturer.

Prior to joining the Vertu Motors group, Anthony spent 20 years working with the BMW brand, including as shareholder and Director at Knights BMW and Franchise Director at Marshall Motors plc. In 2020, while working as a consultant, he supported Vertu with the £28 million acquisition of 12 BMW and MINI sales outlets in five locations from Inchcape plc.

Anthony Masterson, Operations Director for BMW & MINI (left) with Chief Executive Robert Forrester

Ian Wilson, Franchise Director for Citroen at Vertu Motors plc, said: "I am thrilled to be taking on the position of Franchise Director for Citroen within the Group. These brands have tremendous potential, and I look forward to working closely with the team to drive innovation, build strong relationships, and deliver the highest standards of service to our valued customers.

“It’s a happy coincidence that I am now going to be overseeing part of a brand that I worked for nearly 30 years ago, before the Vertu Motors group was even conceived. The brand and I have certainly come a long way in the three decades since I last wore a Bristol Street Motors tie!”

Anthony Masterson, Operations Director for BMW & MINI at Vertu Motors plc, said: “It is an incredible honour to take up this new position. I have been fortunate to work with an exceptional team and receive support from Vertu’s board as we look to explore the opportunities ahead.

“Together, we will continue to elevate BMW and MINI within the Vertu Motors brand, whilst ensuring our customers receive unparalleled service."

Robert Forrester, Chief Executive of Vertu Motors plc, said: "Both Anthony and Ian have the leadership and experience demanded of these senior positions, and I am looking forward to working alongside them as we continue to grow the business.

“With these new appointments, we are well-positioned to continue our upward trajectory, deliver outstanding results, and solidify our position as a driving force in the UK motor retail sector.”