Sarah Martyn joins Hendy as People Director while Pete Walker is appointed Group Service Director.

Sarah, who had a career as a senior interim HR leader for almost 20 years, said her experience in a wide range of different sectors would assist in her new role.

She said: “With more than 2,000 colleagues in the business it’s important to build people capability for the future of Hendy as the group continues to evolve.

“There is a strong connection between colleagues and customer experience and building on this will be integral to my new role.”

Pete Walker, Hendy’s Group Service Director.

Pete joined Westover in 2004 and was its Group Operations Director for service, parts and quality.

He began his motoring career as an apprentice motor technician in the Midlands before moving to Westover as Service Team Leader in 2004.

Simon Bottomley, Chief Operating Officer, said both appointments reinforced the operational board as the company continued to develop and expand.

He added: “People are at the very heart of our operations and we are delighted to have Sarah and Pete as part of the operational board.

“Their expertise complements the existing Hendy members and puts us on an extremely strong footing for the future.”

Hendy, which is marking 160 years in business in 2019, is now a £1bn turnover company with 2,000 colleagues running 26 franchises from 83 outlets in the south.