Daihatsu hires UK marketing boss

Daihatsu, the Japanese car manufacturer, has appointed Chrysler brand manager Franc Gamberini to the new post of UK marketing director.

He will report directly to Daihatsu’s UK managing director David Green, who was appointed in April (MW April 22).

Gamberini will take up his new position at the Dover-based company on August 1. He is currently product marketing manager at Chrysler UK, with responsibility for Internet and database development.

Responsibility for marketing the Daihatsu brand in the UK was divided between the company’s communications manager Fiona Smith and promotions manager Jane Clifford. It is understood that both will now report to Gamberini.

A Daihatsu spokesman says: “Refocusing the marketing effort with Franc Gamberini’s appointment is crucial in continuing Daihatsu’s development in the UK and achieving further volume growth.

“Gamberini has a strong track record in the motor industry and we look forward to his input into the future of the company.”

Daihatsu is best known for its range of small cars and vans, including the Cuore, Charade and Terios models.

Inchcape Motors International holds the Daihatsu franchise in the UK, along with dealerships for Toyota, Mazda, Chrysler, Daihatsu and Ferrari. It is the world’s largest independent car importer and distributor, with operations in 30 leading markets. In the UK, it has six per cent of the car market.