4:32 pm, March 27, 2017
People director Fiona Cottle
CARSHOP has announced the appointment of new people director Fiona Cottle. She joins the UK’s leading used car retailer from global fashion retailer Primark, in a bid to assist CarShop in leading the evolution of the automotive marketplace.
Bringing more than 25 years of HR experience, Cottle’s career spans across all touchpoints of a people strategy, having held UK and global HR positions within Primark.
She joined Primark straight out of university and has spearheaded the retailer’s UK and international growth from a people perspective.
When questioned about the move into the automotive industry, Cottle said: ‘After meeting with Jonathan [Dunkley – the CEO], I was captured by his vision for the future of the business, as well as his ambitious growth plans. I was presented with a great opportunity to use my experience to facilitate growth of a medium-sized customer-centric business, and that was a huge pull. I was also able to easily draw similarities between challenges facing this industry and ones I tackled in my previous role, and that grabbed my attention.
‘Shortly after I was approached for the role, I conducted a mystery shop at one of the CarShop stores and was instantly impressed by the operation and people.’
Dunkley said: ‘We have an extremely ambitious growth strategy, something we’re fully aware can only be driven by people. Our existing People Team have done tremendous work in establishing CarShop as one of the best employers in the industry, but it’s essential that we take our strategy to the next level as we strive to be a world-class retailer.
‘Fiona’s background perfectly complements the role and the objectives set out for the growth of the business. Throughout the recruitment process, Fiona was a stand-out candidate and made it abundantly clear as to how she can help shape our business for the future. Myself and the entire team are delighted Fiona has joined us, and I’m confident that she will be an extremely valuable addition to the team as we continue on our exciting journey.’
Following a comprehensive induction programme, Cottle is due to take the helm of the People Team from April 24, 2017, and says she is excited by the opportunity to help drive CarShop’s growth.
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