Volkswagen Group Ireland has announced Paul Hunt as the new Brand Director for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland.

He succeeds Alan Bateson who was recently appointed Brand Director for Volkswagen Passenger Cars. Hunt joins the brand from his previous role as Head of Service Market for Volkswagen Group Ireland.

Having started out as a graduate recruit with Peugeot in 2002, Hunt has led a distinguished career spanning more than two decades in both the UK and Irish motor trades. He joined Volkswagen Group Ireland in 2011 as Planning Manager for Volkswagen Passenger Cars, progressing to Head of Product and Planning and then Head of Sales before taking over as Country MD for Fiat-Chrysler in 2016. Hunt re-joined Volkswagen Group Ireland in 2019 as part of the Group Aftersales management team.

As Brand Director for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, he is responsible for leading the brand as it transitions towards its ambitious e-mobility goals while continuing to meet the needs of commercial vehicle buyers of all varieties.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is currently Ireland’s third biggest producer of light commercial vehicles with a 12% total market share. Sales for 2023 are up 26% as the brand benefits from the successful introduction of the all-new Amarok pick-up as well as the Irish Car of the Year and Irish Van of the Year 2023 winning ID. Buzz – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ first fully electric model.

Working closely with the Commercial Vehicles team, Hunt will ensure Volkswagen continues to build on the success of best-selling models like the Caddy, Crafter and Transporter while meeting the needs of an increasingly diverse Irish van buying public.

Commenting on his appointment, he said: “I am delighted to take on this prestigious role within the Volkswagen family. Having worked in the motor industry for more than two decades, there is no better time to be involved with one of the world’s leading brands as it transitions towards a more sustainable future. Vans are the lifeblood of Irish industry but Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles are beloved among buyers of all backgrounds. I look forward to working closely with our talented team of retailers to give Irish customers the van buying experience they deserve.”

Carla Wentzel, CEO of Volkswagen Group Ireland, said: “In a career spanning 21 years, Paul has developed a track record for delivering outstanding results. I am convinced his drive, energy and experience will make a great success of his leading role within the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles team.”