The BVRLA has ushered in 2025 with a double change at the top of its senior leadership team and committee of management.
Toby Poston has stepped into the role of chief executive following the retirement of Gerry Keaney after more than 11 years in the role.
The association has also named Lakshmi Moorthy as the BVRLA’s new chairperson, replacing Jon Lawes after his extended tenure.
Poston steps up after 16 years with the association, where he was most recently director of corporate affairs, responsible for policy and public affairs, communications, events, research and fleet services.
During that time, he was the association’s chief spokesperson and guided the industry’s response to a variety of challenges including Brexit, the Covid pandemic and terrorist attacks involving rental vehicles.
Poston said: “Change and challenge await us through 2025 and beyond, but I have absolute faith that our members are well equipped to succeed. I am honoured to take up this role and represent an industry, membership and team that I have so much respect and affection for.
“I am responsible for making sure that the BVRLA is heard in the right places and agile enough to meet member needs. Delivering decarbonisation, supporting the vehicle leasing sector’s response to the recent Court of Appeal judgement, and navigating a turbulent trading environment all require us to be on the front foot. I am fortunate to have a strong grounding in this sector and an excellent team ready to respond.”
Coinciding with Toby Poston becoming chief executive, Lakshmi Moorthy from Arval UK has stepped up from her role as vice chair to head up the BVRLA’s Committee of Management.
Taking over from Jon Lawes, Moorthy will lead the BVRLA’s board of directors, responsible for strategic direction and policy priorities, while ensuring the association is run on a sound financial basis.
Moorthy commented: “During Jon’s tenure, supported immensely by Gerry’s leadership and the BVRLA team beyond, the association has grown a considerable amount. I have big boots to fill but am confident that we will retain this upwards trajectory.
“In Toby, the BVRLA has a passionate leader that knows our sector inside out. I look forward to us working together at a time when members are facing challenges from all directions.”
