The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) has named Toby Poston as its next Chief Executive, effective from 1 January 2025. Poston will succeed Gerry Keaney, who is set to retire at the end of 2024.

Poston, who has been with the BVRLA for 16 years, currently serves as Director of Corporate Affairs. In this role, he oversees policy, public affairs, communications, events, research, and fleet services. Throughout his tenure, Poston has been a key spokesperson for the association, guiding the industry through significant challenges such as Brexit, the Covid-19 pandemic, and incidents involving rental vehicles used in terrorist attacks.

“Toby is uniquely positioned to lead the association through the challenging times ahead,” said BVRLA Chairman Jon Lawes. “He has successfully transformed the Policy and Public Affairs team, significantly increasing the association’s influence. Toby’s deep understanding of the industry, combined with his strategic vision and passion for delivering member value, made him the clear choice.”

Poston expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, saying: “I am thrilled and honoured to continue working with an industry, membership, and team that I hold in high regard. My focus will be on strengthening the BVRLA’s reputation and capabilities, ensuring it is well-equipped to support members in areas like decarbonisation and navigating a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.”

Before joining the BVRLA, Poston spent over a decade as a journalist and editor, most notably with the BBC Business & Economics Unit.