Toyota picks Philpott replacement

Toyota has promoted Matt Harrison to marketing director, replacing Paul Philpott, who has been promoted to commercial director.

Harrison joined Toyota three years ago from Ford. He moves from his current position as general manager of vehicle marketing.

The shake-up in the marketing department follows the surprise decision by former commercial chief Mike Moran to leave the car company. Moran left Toyota at the end of last month to join Thames Water in March as worldwide marketing and strategy director (MW January 30).

Harrison was at Ford for ten years, during which he worked in several sales and marketing roles across its UK, European and global operations. Moran and Philpott were also recruited from Ford.

As Toyota marketing chief, Harrison will have overall responsibility for marketing communications, operations, sales and market planning. He will also manage Toyota’s &£37m advertising and media spend, handled by Saatchi & Saatchi and Zenith Optimedia.

Philpott says: “I am confident that Harrison will play a vital part in the strengthening of our position as a highly desirable, prestigious brand. His appointment is also further evidence of the strength of the management team at Toyota. Being able to recruit internally maintains continuity and stability.”