9:03 am, January 16, 2026
Family-run car dealer Bowker Motor Group has announced a ‘strategic restructure’ for 2026 with several changes made to the firm’s leadership team.
The retailer has appointed Chris Eccles as the new managing director and head of business of its BMW and Mini centre in Preston, which he will take up alongside his existing role as MD of the group’s Blackburn site.
Eccles, who has been with the dealer group for 25 years, will also have a responsibility for mentoring the wider leadership teams across both sites.
He takes over from Jonathan Rogan, who is stepping down as to take up a new group-wide role, which is yet to be announced.
Commenting on his appointment, Eccles said: ‘After more than two decades at Bowker, it’s a privilege to take the reins at Preston.
‘I am looking forward to working closely with the team here while continuing to support the wider leadership group across both sites.’
Another leadership change at Bowker sees Richard Cowell appointed general manager at in Blackburn, having previously held the title of BMW and Mini group general sales manager since 2021.
He will be succeeded in that role by Craig Stephenson, who previously worked as the site’s new car sales manager.
Bosses say the restructure signals Bowker’s continued ‘focus on future growth and leadership continuity’ with new partnerships and brand launched said to be in the pipeline for 2026.
Reflecting on the changes, Rogan said: ‘It has been a fantastic journey leading the team at Preston, and I’m looking forward to what comes next in my new role.
‘There’s a lot happening across the group, and it’s an exciting time to be part of Bowker’s next phase.’
Further details of Rogan’s new role will be confirmed in the coming weeks.
