UK Automotive Network Growth Director

Reed Talent Solutions; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 108,000 - 132,000; Full time

Job summary

Reed Talent Solutions seeks an experienced automotive network development leader to drive the design, expansion and performance of a national dealer network in the UK. The role reports to the UK executive leadership and focuses on network strategy, recruitment and performance improvement across the country.

The position is permanent with a salary up to £120,000 plus executive benefits including a company car and bonus.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in dealer network development within automotive OEMs, importers, distributors or major dealer groups.
• Proven track record of appointing and launching retail partners in the UK automotive market.
• Strong relationships with leading dealer groups and automotive investors.
• In-depth knowledge of network planning, dealer agreements, retailer profitability and franchise operations.
• Outstanding commercial and negotiation skills with board/executive-level influence.
• Strong financial/analytical capability with business case/investment proposal experience.
• Experience in fast-paced, growth-focused environments.
• Ability and willingness to travel extensively throughout the UK.
• Experience launching a new automotive brand in the UK.
• Exposure to EV retail operations and infrastructure development.
• Experience with agency or alternative retail distribution models.
• International or multi-market network development experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the UK dealer network strategy, ensuring optimal market coverage and representation.
• Identify, evaluate and appoint new retail partners across key territories.
• Lead all dealer recruitment, selection, negotiation and appointment activities.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with dealer principals, group CEOs and key stakeholders.
• Manage dealer agreements, standards, compliance and investment programmes.
• Monitor network performance, profitability and retailer health using data-led insights.
• Drive continuous improvement across customer experience, sales performance and aftersales capability.
• Partner with sales, marketing, aftersales, finance and legal teams to ensure successful network implementation and growth.
• Provide strategic recommendations on evolving retail models, including agency, digital and urban formats.
• Lead and develop a high-performing network development function.

Skills

Dealer network development

Automotive industry knowledge

Negotiation

Leadership

Travel readiness

Strategic planning

Job description

Reed Talent Solutions seeks an experienced automotive network development leader to drive the design, expansion and performance of a national dealer network in the UK. The role reports to the UK executive leadership and focuses on network strategy, recruitment and performance improvement across the country.

The position is permanent with a salary up to £120,000 plus executive benefits including a company car and bonus.