Kia Appoints A New Dealer Development Director

Kia's Limited Marketing Director, Simon Hetherington has been appointed to a new role, Dealer Development Director, starting in July 2011.

Hetherington joined Kia in 2007 from Toyota GB and has been responsible for increasing the public profile through a strong strategic development of the product line-up alongside an aggressive and innovative marketing communications programme.

A newly announced department will be lead by Hetherington, whos aims will be to strengthen the dealer network's customer experience focus, the business development of existing and new dealers, providing support and services which support dealership profitability as well as continuing Kia's network growth alongside a new corporate identity, which will be rolled out over the next three years.

Managing Director Michael Cole said: "Simon has done a huge job leading the brand’s market profile over the past four years and I am confident that he will bring all of that experience to bear in helping to enhance the capabilities of our dealer partners. If we are to hit our goals over the next few years we have to deliver an outstanding customer experience – to match our seven year warranty, vehicle design and quality standards."

Hetherington added: "I have had the chance to work with a great team here at Kia and having seen the efforts of our Dealer Commercial, Academy and Franchising teams at close quarters over the last four years, I am convinced we can help our dealers deliver unrivalled services to our customers and at the same time develop even greater profitability for their businesses."