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The Independent Motor Dealers Association (IMDA) has appointed ex-Jardine manager Simon Blackwell (pictured) as a director.
Blackwell has recently worked with Inchcape in its JLR operation. Before that he served with LSH Auto UK, as group general manager for nine sites taking in two market areas, Birmingham and Manchester.
He spent over seven years with Jardine where he was group used car stock manager and buyer. During his time there he was a specialist car buyer purchasing Aston Martin, Bentley, Maserati, Lamborghini and Porsche. Before that he ran Car Connector, his own company trading and retailing used cars.
Blackwell joins the board as the IMDA celebrates its second anniversary. His appointment was welcomed by IMDA chairman Umesh Samani.
“Due to the tremendous growth the IMDA have recruited a new board member, Simon Blackwell with over 24 years industry experience he’ll be a great asset to the association with his wealth of knowledge,” said Samani.
The IMDA’s founding members are Stuart Saunders of Urban Car Company, David Bilsborough of Cheshire Cars, Philip Nothard of Cox Automotive, Jim Reid of Jim Reid Vehicle Sales, Chris Roach of Chequers Cars Lightwater and Umesh Samani Specialist Cars Stoke.
The group now claims to have 400 approved members – there is no charge for membership – and nearly 40 supporting suppliers who provide members with exclusive deals.
“Two years on and we are proud of what we have achieved in such a short time with over 400 approved members and just under 40 supporting suppliers who help and support the independent motor dealers with exclusive deals not available from anywhere else,” said Samani.