Ring Automotive restructures sales teams

In July 2023, Andy Gratton took over as managing director of Ring Automotive, after serving as finance director for three years.

Now into its 50th year of trading, the supplier of automotive lighting and auto electrics is gearing up for a strategic business revamp under the leadership of Gratton, which includes the restructuring of its sales teams.

As such, Phil Donnelly has been promoted to the role of sales director UK and Ireland, where he will oversee all aftermarket sales channels.

Simultaneously, Jeremy Rochfort has been appointed as the international key accounts manager within the European region of ams-Osram. This move “aims to enhance collaboration with Osram on a pan-European level and drive account management for customers operating across multiple European countries”, Ring Automotive said.

“Both Phil and Jeremy have contributed significantly to Ring during their time with the company. These changes create a single point of sales leadership in our UK organisation while increasing collaboration with Osram on a pan-European level,” Andy Gratton said.

Alongside these changes, the team reporting to Phil Donnelly has been reshaped, with Keith Booth promoted to the role of head of field sales.

Ring has invested in its area sales team and, as such, Booth is responsible for seven area sales managers across the UK and Ireland. The company stated that his experience in the aftermarket will play a crucial role in strengthening its sales force.

Elsewhere, Dan O’Brien has joined the company as head of trade key accounts, reporting directly to Phil Donnelly.

Dan James, who has worked as a key account manager in the retail business unit, has been promoted to head of retail and will take overall responsibility for the retail channel, reporting into Donnelly.

Andy Gratton added: “In 2024, Ring will celebrate its 50th anniversary of trading, and while we have enjoyed tremendous success in the automotive market, the changes are necessary to ensure that Ring is well-placed to focus on its customers and varied markets for the next 50 years.

“As Ring enters its second half-century, the company is dedicated to improving road safety, driving profitable growth for its customers, and providing an exciting and developmental environment for its people.

“The year 2024 promises to be an exciting chapter in Ring’s history, culminating in the celebration of its 50th anniversary.

“As part of the ams-Osram group, Ring is well-placed to invest in the UK aftermarket and continue its mission to provide a world-class service to its UK and Ireland customer base.”

Gratton also confirmed that Ring has other changes to communicate imminently linked both to its aftermarket and vehicle conversion businesses. More details to follow imminently.