PEOPLE People stories and movements from around your industry Marketing Manager joins First Line Ltd Aftermarket specialist First Line Ltd. has appointed Alex Jarvis-Cleaver as its new marketing manager to spearhead the company’s communications strategy and drive brand awareness. Jarvis-Cleaver has a wealth of experience in marketing, having led marketing operations at a manufacturer of torque tools for six years, prior to a brief career break that saw him take on a trip across the United States. In his new role, alongside developing and executing First Line Ltd.’s marketing strategy, Jarvis-Cleaver will handle all communications, producing the company’s regular email newsletters, social media content, and designing its popular branded goods, as well as attending trade exhibitions to ensure the company can continue to embrace the latest industry updates and innovations. On his new role, Jarvis- Cleaver said: “I’m excited to have joined First Line – a very successful organisation with a fantastic reputation that’s only growing. “It’s a renowned aftermarket brand set apart by its quality of products, and extensive range of over 40,000 references across 60 product lines. <strong>The</strong>re’s so much potential within the company and I’m looking forward to driving further awareness of what First Line can offer the aftermarket.” Ramón Hoekman expands role within WAI WAI’s Vice-President of Sales Europe, Ramón Hoekman, has expanded his role to ensure a greater involvement in the overall sales and commercial aspects of the business, as the organisation aligns under the new umbrella, WAI Europe. <strong>The</strong> announcement comes following a number of leadership changes made by the global auto electrical specialist, which saw current UK managing director Richard Welland now appointed as President of Europe, overseeing all European operations. Hoekman joined the company in 2007 as a Business Development Manager, working his way up to VP Sales EMEA. In his new role Ramón will work closely with Richard to enhance commercial operations and strengthen WAI’s presence in the European market. Commenting on his expanded role, Hoekman said: “I’m excited to be undertaking this new role within WAI, at a time when the WAI brand is increasing its profile among customers in the European aftermarket. Through our continued investment, we are meeting the needs of an evolving sector and ensuring customers benefit from a high quality, reliable partner.” Richard Welland added: “Ramón has consistently demonstrated remarkable dedication and passion for driving growth within our organisation. Mark Armitage joins Autotech Group as Commercial Director Autotech Group has announced the appointment of Mark Armitage, FIMI, as Commercial Director - a newly created position for the progressive company. With over 30 years of industry experience, most recently at <strong>The</strong> Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), Mark brings a wealth of knowledge to the position and is set to drive the growth of Autotech Group’s four divisions – Recruit, Training, Academy and Connect. Joining the automotive sector straight from school as an apprentice, Mark has worked across dealer groups, the Department of Education, and the RAC in a range of roles covering training and business development. Alongside senior management positions within the IMI, he was also instrumental in setting them up as an Apprentice End Point Assessment Organisation. While bringing a depth of industry knowledge to Autotech Group, Mark’s breadth of experience covers each of the company’s divisions which have all been created to drive talent into the automotive aftermarket and reduce the skills shortage. “I am delighted to join Autotech Group,” Mark comments. “<strong>The</strong> IMI does a tremendous job in supporting the sector and, after 8 years with them, I have cultivated a strong team who will succeed me and continue to drive forward the IMI with their own fresh ideas. <strong>The</strong>re is no getting away from the fact that the skills shortage is leaving a lasting legacy on the automotive industry and there are currently 26,000 vacancies within the sector. Over the years, I have got to know Gavin and the team at Autotech Group, and I have always been impressed with the company’s tenacity and ability to tackle the issues facing the sector head on. <strong>The</strong> recent addition of Autotech Connect to the company’s portfolio cemented my desire to work with them as I have always been a strong advocate for introducing digital and technological solutions into a business.” We are looking forward to seeing how Mark will drive our company divisions forward and take our expertise to new, untapped sub sectors of the industry.” 34 THE GARAGE 34 people.indd 1 27/07/2023 12:42
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