Ashley Andrew to Lead U.K. SEAT Dealers

SEAT U.K. names industry veteran Ashley Andrew as head of operations.

Andrew takes over the running of the Spanish brand’s U.K. dealer network March 5, moving from British auto maker Rolls-Royce, where he was director for Europe and South Africa.

In almost 20 years in the auto business, Andrew, 40, has experience across diverse automotive sectors from volume to premium and, most recently with Rolls-Royce, super-luxury.

Having worked in domestic and international markets with Ford and BMW, he has held senior positions in operations, product marketing, brand management and customer service.

Andrew says he is joining SEAT U.K. at an important time in its development, with Managing Director Peter Wyhinny saying 2012 will be one of the busiest years in company history.

“The brand is embarking on a major new-product offensive this year,” Andrew says in a statement.

SEAT U.K.’s new-model rollout will be led by the Ibiza and Mii 3-door in the first half.