With 13 years at ALD under his belt, Allen said that his time at the company had been rewarding both professionally and personally but added that the opportunity to join ARI Fleet UK was too good to pass up.

The Chippenham-based company, which was taken over by US firm ARI in December 2011, manages approximately 55,000 vehicles and drivers, and offers a wide range of fleet products and services. 

Allen said of his appointment: 'ARI’s focus on the client, industry-leading technology, and approach to transparent cost management is something I believe will be readily embraced by companies operating vehicles in the UK. I am excited to join the ARI team and to help the continuing development of this global organisation.'

Allen held the role of MD of ALD UK for 13 years. He played an instrumental role in the buy-out of BCH Vehicle Management (now ALD UK) and subsequently joined the team as finance director in early 1996. Prior to his time with ALD UK, he held several managerial positions with Ernst & Young.

Chris Conroy, ARI’s managing director of global operations, stated: 'We are delighted to have someone of Keith’s calibre join our organisation. His extensive experience in vehicle leasing and fleet management will certainly play a major role in ARI’s continued growth and success globally.'

Allen will initially work closely with acting managing director Mark Bryan, who is transitioning back into his role as vice president of European integration.

Conroy added: 'With Keith, Mark, and FSG founder and chairman Geoffrey Bray leading the organisation, the future for ARI in the UK is very exciting.'