MANAGING DIRECTOR, DAVID RYE, TO RETIRE FOLLOWING A 34-YEAR CAREER WITH PREMIER MOTORS
Premier Motors and Greenhous Group extend their heartfelt congratulations to David Rye, Managing Director of Premier Motors, on his retirement.
David’s journey in the automotive industry began in 1976 as a Petrol Pump Attendant, Car Cleaner and Driver. By 1979, he had moved into car sales, selling Fiat, Citroën and Lancia in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. From 1981 to 1984, he continued in car sales with VW and Audi in Tonbridge, Kent, and Eastbourne, East Sussex.
In 1984, David joined Dagenham Motors in East Grinstead as a Sales Executive, beginning his long association with Ford. He was promoted to Business Manager in 1987, during which time he honed his skills in sales and finance, earning recognition as one of Ford Credit’s top Business Managers in the UK in 1988 and 1989.
His journey with Premier Motors began in April 1991 when he moved to the Isle of Wight and took on the role of Business Manager. In 1994, he was promoted to Sales Manager, and in 2002, he rose to the position of Managing Director.
Under David’s leadership, Premier Motors achieved remarkable success, securing five prestigious Ford Chairman’s Awards in 2007, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020. He was also instrumental in Premier Motors being recognised as one of Automotive Management magazine’s ‘UK’s Best Dealerships to Work For’ for three consecutive years in 2017, 2018 and 2019. This accolade celebrated dealerships that excel in employee satisfaction, workplace culture and their contribution to the local economy.
For much of David’s tenure, Premier Motors was widely known locally as Premier Ford. In 2021, he led the team in acquiring the MG franchise, overseeing extensive redevelopment, including a new showroom and reception area. Under the Premier Motors umbrella, Premier MG quickly became the go-to destination for MG’s range of value-for-money vehicles on the Isle of Wight. In 2023, David and his team proudly marked Premier Motors’ centenary as a Ford dealer on the island.
David also prioritised investment in infrastructure, ensuring the company’s BSI 10125-approved Accident Repair Centre received substantial upgrades in 2017. The addition of two larger ovens, designed for bigger commercial vehicles, along with expanded work areas, significantly improved productivity and turnaround times.
With David’s retirement, Neil Gordon steps up as Dealer Principal at Premier Motors. With over 21 years of service at the company, Neil transitions from his previous role as Sales Manager.
Neil Gordon commented: “We all wish David the very best in his well-deserved retirement after many years of dedication and hard work at Premier Motors. He has made a lasting impact on the company, successfully guiding us through economic challenges, evolving industry trends and numerous national accolades. David’s leadership has strengthened every department within Premier Motors, ensuring outstanding service to our customers. We look forward to celebrating his career and expressing our gratitude for his immense contributions.”
David now looks forward to enjoying his retirement by travelling far and wide with his wife, Wendy. When back home, he looks forward to spending time with his family, enjoying a game of ten-pin bowling, watching football and socialising with friends and associates.
