Staff from OEMs and dealer groups have shared tributes following the sudden death of Stellantis UK’s director responsible for parts operations, Andy Robson.
Robson spent 40 years with Vauxhall and Stellantis, and the vehicle manufacturer said it is “with great sadness” that it shares the news of his death last week.
He will be much missed by friends and colleagues, and had made “a lasting and meaningful contribution to our organisation,” Stellantis UK said in a statement..
“He was an exceptional leader and a highly respected colleague, but above all, Andy was known for his kindness, integrity, hard working nature and the genuine care he showed for those around him. Andy had a huge impact on his teams and on the wider business, and his loss will be felt deeply by all who had the privilege of working with him. At this very difficult time, our thoughts are with Andy’s family, friends, and colleagues. He will be remembered with great respect and fondness.”
In 2020, in an interview with Automotive Management, when he was network development director, Robson said the most important thing he had learned in his career was “to recognise that although our business is the sale of vehicles, service and parts, we are really in the people business. We offer the same opportunity to many individual and group investors across the UK and the key difference between the top 25% and the bottom 25% are the people who operate the business.”
On LinkedIn, dozens and dozens of executives from dealer groups and OEMs have expressed their sadness at the news and offered their sympathies to Robson’s wife and children.
Stellantis UK senior vice president and group managing director Eurig Druce said: “Andy dedicated 40 years to the Vauxhall and Stellantis family, leaving an indelible mark on our organisation. He was not only an exceptional leader, but also a deeply respected colleague, mentor, and friend to so many.”
His colleague Stephanie Howson, director of network development, customer experience and training, added: “This is so heart breaking, a huge loss for all of us, but nothing compared to the huge loss for Emma, Maisie and Archie. A true gentlemen who will be really missed by all.”
Steve Bessex, chief executive of AM100 dealer group Drive Motor Retail, said: “Andy was the most genuine and nicest person you could wish to meet . I have known him for pretty much all of those 40 years and never heard a bad word from him or about him. God bless you Andy and best wishes at this terrible time to his family.”
And Colin Start, marketing director for parts and service at Stellantis UK, said: “I had the experience of working very closely with Andy for the last 6 years. Often sharing a laugh and a grumble, but I always remember Andy for being so focused on the task in hand. Thank you for the kindness, enthusiasm and holiday tips you shared along your journey. Rest well my friend.”