Our latest ‘Meet the Team’ interview is with our new Business Development Director, Lee Coomber who tells us all about his new role, his thoughts on the automotive industry and his varied film tastes…

Tell us a little about yourself

I have been working in the automotive industry for the past 13 years, specialising in technology such as data and system providers for both dealerships and manufacturers. When I’m not at work, I like to spend time with the family, play golf and get away when I can. I also have a keen interest in horse racing and attend the Cheltenham Festival every year.

What do you hope to bring to Dealerweb?

I hope to bring a good understanding of the industry and how systems play a vital part in the sales process for both dealers and manufacturers. I understand the pressures they face and I can demonstrate how using tailored solutions can add real benefit to their business.

What do you think is the most exciting thing about the automotive industry at the moment?

For me, it is being part of a rapidly changing landscape. It’s not just the vehicles themselves (such as the latest developments in hybrid and autonomous cars), but how the industry is evolving to reflect new consumer needs. Many motorists are already beginning to explore different purchasing options such as pay-as-you-go and personal contract hire, and it'll be interesting to see how sellers meet these new challenges.

What’s more, with the resources available online, the consumer has never been better informed on what is available and this makes the job more difficult for both manufacturers and dealers.

And, finally, a few of your favourite things….?

Book

I like a good autobiography and one of the best was Duncan Bannatyne's (from Dragons’ Den) Riding the Storm. I am also partial to Lee Childs’ Jack Reacher series.

Film

Forrest Gump, Star Wars (originals!) and Roadhouse – for different reasons but are all great films.

Place

West Coast, USA – anywhere from San Francisco down to San Diego. The Pacific Coast Highway is the most beautiful drive down through Monterey, Carmel, Big Sur and down into Malibu.

Car

If money’s no object, then the Aston Martin Vantage V8. But for an everyday appeal the Audi RS6 Avant can’t be beaten!