The head of a car sales firm has stepped down after 15 years in the driving seat.

Bermuda Motors’ general manager Michael Butler has been replaced by Krishna King, who has moved up from his role as after-sales manager for parts.

David Gibbons, chairman of Bermuda Motors, said: “I would like to thank Michael for his considerable contribution during his time with the company.

“He has guided us through the significant challenges presented by the recession and the slump in vehicle sales and now leaves Bermuda Motors with a very sound foundation and pre-eminent position in the industry.

“Going forward, I look forward to working with Krishna to build on the legacy left by Michael.”

Mr Butler, who will remain at Bermuda Motors in a consultancy role until the end of the year, is to return to his native UK with his family.

Mr King has worked for the firm for more than 25 years, starting part-time while still a Bermuda College student, and has been parts manager for 12 years.

He said: “I have certainly seen a lot of changes in automobile technology including the modernisation of logistics in parts and service, going from fax and e-mail to instant ordering, website uploads and live inventory checking with our manufacturers.

“The globalisation of our business and sourcing of parts provides constant challenge to keep that balance of service and cost to keep our customers satisfied.”

Mr King added that he had learnt about the Japanese principle of kaizen — continuous improvement — while on a training course in Japan in the 1990s.

He said: “Over the years, I have tried to apply this principle in all I do and will continue to do in my new role as general manager.

“Equally important for me is to recognise our staff and help them reach their full potential by working with kaizen in our processes, operations, facilities, products and service to building better customer service and strengthening our manufacturer relations. That is my goal.

“I look forward with confidence to the new challenges ahead and wish Michael much success as he starts a new chapter in his life.”

Mr Butler said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenge as general manager of Bermuda Motors. I am particularly proud of the fact that I helped Bermuda Motors become the leading vehicles sales company on the island.

“During a period of great technological change and a challenging economy, we increased our range of models and have led the island in private car sales for the past three years.

“I’ve enjoyed working with a dedicated and talented team to greatly improve our level of customer service, after sales and the complete modernisation of our paint and body shop.

“I wish Krishna all the best as general manager and I hope he can take the company to even greater heights.”

Bermuda Motors, based in Hamilton, distributes BMW, Fiat, Ford, Kia, Lexus, Mini and Toyota cars, vans and trucks, as well as Kymco motorbikes and scooters.”