Overview
Motus Group (UK) announced a planned leadership transition: chief executive Rob Truscott will retire on July 31, with Matt Lawrenson succeeding him as CEO on Aug. 1. The move reflects a long-running succession approach within the organization and coincides with downstream changes at Motus Commercials, while Pentagon Motor Group remains unchanged under its current leader.
Key appointments and dates
- July 31: Rob Truscott retires after eight years as CEO and 21 years with the company.
- Aug. 1: Matt Lawrenson becomes CEO of Motus Group (UK).
- Motus Commercials: Lawrenson is succeeded by Daniel Fitzjohn as managing director.
- Pentagon Motor Group: Continues under CEO Tom Carney; no changes announced.
Leader backgrounds
- Rob Truscott: Led UK operations across retail and commercial vehicles during a period of consolidation; plans to split time between the UK and South Africa post-retirement; emphasizes succession and internal talent development.
- Matt Lawrenson: Over two decades with Motus; chartered accountant; focused on expanding the commercial vehicle footprint; credited with growing Motus Commercials into what the article reports is the largest DAF dealer group in Europe; former chair and continuing member of the DAF international dealer council.
- Daniel Fitzjohn: Joined in 2017 after senior roles in the Middle East; recently served as commercial director of Motus Commercials and regional director for the Southwest; member of the DAF UK dealer council.
Implications
- Continuity: Appointments from within underscore stable relationships with manufacturers and partners, especially within the DAF network.
- Scope: UK operations remain structured around passenger car retail (Pentagon Motor Group) and commercial vehicles (Motus Commercials), with experienced insiders stepping into broader roles.
- Strategy: No new strategic priorities were outlined; the focus is on an orderly handover.
Timing and transition
The sequencing—retirement on July 31 followed by appointments effective Aug. 1—creates a clean handover for both the UK group and Motus Commercials. No additional organizational changes were detailed.
