HERTZ Corporation has appointed David Rowlands as new general manager for Hertz UK.

He replaces Neil Cunningham who, after 19 years in the company, decided to pursue a new career opportunity.

Mr Rowlands joins Hertz as a senior business leader with extensive operational leadership experience and a strong track record in driving significant profits and growth in both domestic and international environments after starting his working life at Asda Stores.

David Rowlands – who reports directly to Rafael Girona, senior general manager Region North, Hertz International – is responsible for developing and driving Hertz UK’s strategy and business plan as well as leading the country’s vehicle rental operations.

Mr Rowlands has a multi-channel background in a variety of retail and global corporate sectors as well as a strong expertise in change management, process improvements and business transformation.

Rafael Girona said: “David will oversee the country’s performance and teams, bringing a fresh perspective and significant set of skills to the role.”

Mr Rowlands said he was honoured to be leading the UK business of “such a highly prestigious and globally recognised brand”.

“With our fantastic range of cars and vans to suit every customer need, our presence in the accident management industry with CCL Accident Support, and our talented team, Hertz UK has a very strong proposition for leisure and business travellers alike.

“True to the values of Hertz, my mission is to continue to drive our focus on providing a superior service to our customers and a great place to work for our employees.”

Mr Rowlands most recently served as senior vice president of global operations for Antenna International from 2012. Prior to this he was vice president of international retail operations at Sony Pictures for four years and as international retail development director at NBC Universal Pictures International for seven years.

He previously held leadership positions at Tate & Lyle Europe and Warner Brothers Home Video International. Mr Rowlands started his career at Asda Stores where he held various head office and store management roles.