Ricky McFarland has been appointed as head of strategic accounts at Mercedes-Benz Vans.

McFarland was country manager at Fiat Professional from September last year until May, when he departed and was replaced by Alejandro Noriega.

Simon Neill, UK sales director said: “We are pleased to welcome Ricky to Mercedes-Benz Vans and to a team which he has described as ‘the best in the business’. Ricky’s passion and knowledge for the industry will further boost an already successful team as we continue to partner with our customers to best support their businesses.”

McFarland added: “Mercedes-Benz Vans has been an ever-growing force in the UK van fleet sector, so I am joining the brand at a very exciting time. I look forward to meeting existing customers, welcoming new businesses, and further enhancing the great team. With a fantastic offering in addition to the award-winning vehicles, such as MobiloVan free roadside assistance, round-the-clock servicing, and driver training coming shortly, I am looking forward to getting stuck in!”

Head of Strategic Accounts is a role vacated by Andy Lawson as he further develops his international Mercedes-Benz career with a secondment opportunity as Head of Strategic Accounts for Mercedes-Benz Vans USA, based in Georgia.

Mercedes-Benz Vans is dedicated to talent development, with a significant focus on international movements, technical apprenticeships and the industry-leading Talent Development Programme – a two-year course that focuses on sales and after sales excellence in the van sector.