Halfords Autocentres has hired a business development director to drive fleet and business to business trade as the retailer invests in the growing division.

Former Virgin Atlantic Airways European general manager Andrew Huntly has been appointed to the newly created role.

Huntly, who will be responsible for growing business to business sales across 260 Autocentres, has much experience across the transport sector, having previously headed up Virgin’s Heathrow airport operations and held senior development roles with RAC and AA.

Halfords Autocentres chief executive Bill Duffy said: “Fleet currently represents about a quarter of Halfords Autocentres revenue and we are aiming to grow this in line with our overall business growth targets.

“With Andrew’s appointment we are investing to ensure that we have the right capabilities and resources to develop attractive propositions for our customers. Andrew’s extensive experience in driving business opportunities will be key to ensuring our ambitious targets are met.”

Duffy added the retailer is expanding its B2B team to support the growth.