BVRLA chief executive Gerry Keaney has announced that he will step down from his role at the end of 2024, after more than 11 years leading the BVRLA.

Gerry Keaney was appointed as BVRLA chief executive in May 2013

Keaney took over in May 2013 from John Lewis and previously spent nine years as senior vice president of marketing, sales and service at Volvo Car Corporation.

During his leadership of the BVRLA, the association has overseen significant growth and development across all the association’s core activities. Annual revenues have increased more than threefold, while membership numbers have expanded by over 50% to more than 1,000 organisations.

A particular success during Keaney’s tenure has been in the leasing broker sector, with more than 320 members and a leading compliance programme.

Jon Lawes, BVRLA chair, said: “Under Gerry’s leadership, the BVRLA has been transformed. The association looks very different to a decade ago, its professionalism and value delivered to members have increased immeasurably. Coupled with exceptional growth, the BVRLA has continued to extend its influence in Westminster. Our voice is consistent and more credible than ever.

“Gerry will undoubtedly leave the association in a stronger position, and we must now identify a suitable successor to lead the organisation and support members with the challenges ahead.”

Highlights and notable events from Keaney’s time as BVRLA CEO span all departments and he has helped guide the industry through defining moments including Brexit, the Covid pandemic and terrorist attacks involving rental vehicles.

His tenure saw the introduction of a new Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) service, giving members’ customers greater protection and improving the credibility that comes with the BVRLA logo. That credibility has been enhanced further through the development of the association’s learning and development programme, which has helped members to raise standards and evidence them.

The BVRLA also said the Keaney had helped ensure the vehicle rental and leasing sector’s voice was more evident and respected than ever in policy and public affairs. Zero percent Benefit-in-Kind rates for electric vehicles were secured in 2020, before additional credits for car clubs and vehicles for disability use were introduced with the ZEV mandate in 2024. Other achievements during Keaney’s tenure include the extension of the Plug-in Van Grant, protections for members around access rights for connected car data, and working with DfT to establish the Rental Vehicle Security Scheme (RVSS).

Gerry Keaney commented: “I have been fortunate to work with some of the most passionate, knowledgeable and ambitious people our sector has to offer. The BVRLA’s performance over the last decade has been nothing short of exceptional. It has been a privilege to lead the team that makes it happen, backed by an army of supportive members, industry colleagues and a very engaged Board of Directors. Together, we have transformed what the BVRLA stands for and the role our industry has with government, regulators and consumers.”