Watkins promoted to new Cox Automotive European role

Cox Automotive Europe has created a new Sales Director role as part of a move to strengthen its senior leadership team working with customers.

Sam Watkins, currently Commercial Director for Manheim Vehicle Services (MVS), has been promoted into this new Sales Director role, reporting directly into James Leese, Chief Customer Officer for Cox Automotive Europe. Watkins takes up her new sales role on 7th June 2021.

During her time at MVS, Watkins has played an instrumental role in retaining and winning major new contracts from vehicle manufacturer, finance and fleet operators, as well as opening a number of exciting wider opportunities for Cox Automotive in other business areas .

As part of her new role, Watkins will take on responsibility for several areas of Cox Automotive Europe’s enterprise sales approach, continuing to bring our sales functions closer together and promoting its connected proposition to customers and prospects.

James Leese commented: “Many of our larger OEM and fleets customers are now looking for connected solutions across the UK and Europe. We are well-placed to offer these solutions using multiple products and services across the Cox Automotive portfolio. We need to ensure we are structured appropriately to work with both existing customers and prospects to meet their requirements.”
Watkins commented: “I am delighted to move into this role at a crucial point in the expansion of our enterprise sales function. Enabling the success of our customers by providing wide ranging value driven solutions underpins the approach of Cox Automotive’s sales strategy.”

Prior to joining Cox Automotive, Watkins has held senior positions at several vehicle manufacturers and as a dealer principal in the retail sector. She was also Chair of the VRA for two years up to January 21, and currently remains as a board director.