Volkswagen UK has appointed of James Douglas as its head of sales operations, commencing the role in June.

Previously the head of sales operations for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Douglas has worked for the company for eight years, joining as head of fleet for Audi.

Beyond VW, Douglas boasts more than 20 years’ experience across the automotive sector, including 13 years at Nissan GB where he held board-level roles as corporate sales director and LCV sales and marketing director.

Douglas will assume his new role at a pivotal moment for VW Passenger Cars, as the firm attempts to advance its electric offering.

Referring to the firm’s transformation, Douglas said: “The brand is at a crucial stage in history, firmly on its way to transitioning towards an electric future thanks to the ID.3 and ID.4.

“Our retailers have played a key part in this, helping to propel the brand to the top of the sales charts in March 2021, with consistently high performance, and fantastic customer focus.”

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Across the last four years of his career, Douglas helped to enhance the operational capability of the VW Commercial Vehicles network, developed a weather-resistant network, and initiated the fleet agency model for the brand.

Andrew Savvas, director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars, praised Douglas’ legacy: “James’ impressive work in Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will stand him in good stead as we continue our journey to greater electrification, digitisation and connected cars.”

Douglas is set to replace Patrick McGillycuddy who has moved to a role in the automotive industry outside Volkswagen Group UK.

Savvas continued: “During his time as head of sales operations, McGillycuddy successfully oversaw the advent of the ID. family, taking the brand through an historic change in its journey. We’re grateful for his contribution and wish him well for the future.”

Recruitment is under way for Douglas’ successor in Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.