8:50 am, June 30, 2026
The boss of SLM Group has decided to retire after a 47-year career with the company.
Managing director Mark Phillips will be replaced by Jason Barlow from July 1.
Barlow will take the helm of the business that has showrooms, service, parts and body repair centres across East Sussex, East Anglia, Surrey, Hampshire and Essex, and represents Toyota, Vauxhall, Suzuki and Cupra.
Phillips joined St Leonards Motors (SLM Group) in 1979 at the age of 16 as an apprentice mechanic at the company’s Bexhill site when the business represented Fiat.
Over nearly five decades, he progressed through the organisation in a career that saw him move from the workshop into aftersales leadership before becoming a director in 2000 and ultimately managing director in 2019.
Reflecting on his career, Phillips said: ‘It has been a true privilege to serve this company and to work alongside such dedicated and talented colleagues and friends.
‘I could never have imagined when I joined as a 16-year-old apprentice that I would spend my entire working life with the same business and eventually become managing director.
‘I feel incredibly fortunate not only to have had a rewarding career, but also to have been part of the SLM family for so many years.
‘With my wife now retired, the joy ofbecoming a grandparent and another grandchild on the way, the time feels right to begin the next chapter.’
Commenting on his appointment, Barlow said: ‘I am incredibly proud and honoured to take on the role of managing director and to follow in Mark’s footsteps.
‘Mark’s journey and leadership have been truly inspiring, and his contribution to SLM Group over the past 47 years has helped shape the company we are today.
‘We have a strong and experienced leadership team in place, and I look forward to working closely with colleagues across the business as we continue to build on the company’s success and prepare for the opportunities ahead.’
SLM Group thanked Mark for his dedication, leadership and commitment throughout his career and wished him a long and happy retirement.
Image: From left to right – Jason Barlow, Mark Phillips
