SMH names new managing director
SMH has named former Citroen chief Karl Howkins as its new managing director of auction services. He will lead CD Auctions on the next stage of its development and integration into the SMH Group.
In his new role, he will lead the company’s expansion plans with further investment in digital platforms and physical infrastructure. It currently operates five sites across the UK, with onsite refurbishment and digital remarketing facilities.
Martin McAuley, director at SMH Fleet Solutions, said: “Karl brings a wealth of experience to the group and will lead the integration of CD Auctions into the wider business. It is the right time to expand our management team as we accelerate our plans and ambitions for the future. We will continue to grow our technology capabilities while building out our footprint across the UK to provide best in class services to meet all of our customers’ vehicle management needs.”
Howkins said: “I’m delighted to be joining the SMH Group and leading the CD Auction business. It is uniquely placed in the industry with a digital-first offering that is a great fit for the future needs of fleets, dealers and OEMs. Our remote sales mean far fewer links in the chain between defleet and dealer forecourt, which provides a faster, leaner and more efficient process. It’s a process that will continue to expand and evolve across the SMH Group.”
