A new boss is set to take over at Toyota’s Derbyshire factory after its current managing director was appointed to the car manufacturer’s European executive team.
Marvin Cooke, who currently heads up Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK (TMUK), which has its car-making plant at Burnaston, near Derby, has been appointed as senior vice-president of manufacturing at Toyota Motor Europe.
In his new position, which he will take up from January 1, Mr Cooke will be responsible for Logistics, Toyota Production System, Production Control functions and head Toyota’s European Manufacturing Companies.
In his three years as TMUK's managing director, Mr Cooke has led the company through key developments that have seen it successfully launch production of the new Toyota Corolla at Burnaston and improve business competitiveness.
Mr Cooke said: “It’s been a real privilege to be part of TMUK’s progress as we successfully upgraded our operations to produce the new Corolla, our first model to be built on the Toyota New Global Architecture platform, and to meet the increasing customer demand for our world-leading hybrid-electric vehicles.
“Having the support of such a skilled and dedicated workforce made the job all the more rewarding.
“I look forward to being able to draw on the significant experience of being part of TMUK for 28 years in my new role.
“As we enter a period of important and exciting transformation for the automotive industry, I will be working with Toyota manufacturing businesses across Europe in their drive to constantly improve competitiveness and deliver ever-better products.”
As a result of Mr Cooke taking up his new role at Toyota Motor Europe, Jim Crosbie, currently TMUK’s deputy managing director, will step up to the post of managing director - a position he will take up from January 1.
Mr Crosbie, who has been with the company for 18 years, has played a central role in strengthening Toyota’s manufacturing activities, specifically as head of its engine plant in Deeside, North Wales.
He said: “TMUK has a proud history. Established as Toyota’s first manufacturing business in Europe 30 years ago it continues to make an important contribution to the regional business through vehicle and engine production with a constant focus on quality and competitiveness.
“The good work already done and the commitment and talents of our UK workforce will be of immense value to me in my new role as together we build a sustainable future for the company.”
Tim Freeman, currently TMUK’s director for production support, will replace Mr Crosbie as deputy managing director, with specific responsibility for the engine plant, corporate affairs and production control.
Mr Freeman, who joined TMUK in 2003, said: “I’m delighted to take on the role of deputy managing director of TMUK.
“Together with all our members at our engine and vehicle plant, we are focused on maximising efforts to maintain and enhance our competitiveness and capabilities.”
