Bell Pottinger has brought in automotive specialist Will Powell as the agency seeks to exploit a resurgence in the UK car market.
Powell joins Bell Pottinger in a new role as partner from automotive specialist Influence Associates.
Formerly a journalist, his career in PR has also included working with clients such as Fiat Group, Michelin, Stobart Group and Hyundai and a stint in-house with Jaguar Land Rover.
David Wilson, group MD for Bell Pottinger, said: "Recent figures demonstrate a true revival of the car industry, with resurgent sales and future production estimates that have not been seen since the 1970s. But manufacturers also face significant communications challenges to target their customers and as they modernise to fulfil new and future legislation, so we are well positioned to meet this need."
Figures released by The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show that the 2013 new car market recorded its best performance in five years, with 2.3 million cars bought.