Barratt was previously made director, sales, Ford of Britain, in July 2011, and prior to this was director, Ford Customer Service Division (FCSD) for the carmaker. He has also served as a district sales manager for Ford of Britain and previously led the UK sales teams for five years in the Eastern and Northern districts.

Roelant de Waard, vice president of marketing, sales and service, Ford of Europe, said: "Andy has a wealth of experience in the UK business that makes him well placed to manage Ford's biggest European market and to take on the chairman’s responsibilities, representing Ford on key issues such as the future of UK automotive manufacturing, skills, research and development, and the low-emissions agenda.”

Barratt succeeds Mark Ovenden who takes on the role of president and CEO, Ford Sollers, the joint venture of Ford Motor Company and JSC Sollers in Russia.

Jim Farley, executive vice president and president, Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: “I am delighted to welcome Mark back to Russia following a successful period improving sales and increasing the quality of our business in Britain. He is well equipped to deal with the current difficult market conditions in this market as well as the tremendous potential it offers.”

Andy Barratt’s replacement will announced separately.