The Fiat Group is strengthening its relationship with the contract hire industry, both in the UK and across mainland Europe.

The Fiat Group is strengthening its relationship with the contract hire industry, both in the UK and across mainland Europe. Three fleet account managers have been appointed in Turin to develop relationships with pan-European contract hire companies. Supplier agreements have already been signed with LeasePlan, Arval, GE, ALD, Masterlease, ING and DaimlerChrysler Financial Services.

Fiat’s aim is to increase its penetration into the contract hire sector and generally educate drivers and fleets about the practicality and ‘green’ nature of its extensive car and van range. The Turin based fleet team will work closely with Fiat fleet teams across Europe to further develop relationships with the contract hire sector at a national level.

Fiat Group Automobiles UK has responded by announcing a new structure that will support the country’s top 50 contract hire companies. Paul Frain has been promoted to Contract Hire and Leasing Manager (North), while Fiat newcomer Sam Watkins takes on the same role for the south of the country.

Paul joined Fiat from Lex six years ago, and carried out the role of Corporate Sales Manager until his promotion in April this year.  One of Fiat Group’s top performers, Paul achieved the accolade of ‘Best Salesman 2007’. Sam is a newcomer to Fiat, joining from Kia where she supported the implementation of a Fleet Specialist Dealer programme and the expansion of Corporate Sales for the brand.  Prior to that, she helped set up and run Mazda’s UK fleet operation. Both Frain and Watkins will report to corporate sales manager James McMenamin.

“The contract hire sector is growing across Europe, and Fiat’s approach will strengthen relationships with all providers and improve sales,” explains Fiat Group’s fleet and remarketing director, Adam Pumfrey. “Fiat in Italy has set up the entire programme in association with the support of all the main markets, which will mean greater partnership opportunities at a pan European and country level. The appointments we have made in the UK will further support this Europe-wide initiative.”