GROUPE PSA, the French automotive manufacturer of Peugeot, Citroën, DS and Opel brands, has appointed Rakesh Nair as its managing director of the GCC region.

In his new role, Nair will report directly to Samir Cherfan, senior vice president for sales, marketing and after sales in Africa and Middle East at Groupe PSA, said a statement.

Bringing 14 years’ experience of motoring expertise, skills in strategic planning, marketing, sales and operations combined with his deep knowledge of the Middle East automotive landscape, Nair will focus on the implementation of the ‘Push to Pass’ strategy in the GCC, it said.

Speaking about Nair’s appointment, Cherfan said: “I am pleased to welcome Nair to the Groupe PSA family. I am confident he will help the company achieve robust and healthy business foundations for the four Brands in the GCC.”

Nair said: “I am proud to join Groupe PSA at such an exciting time for the company as it makes its comeback in the Middle East. The market is full of untapped opportunities to a car maker with such a cutting-edge technology and efficiency like our company.”

Nair joins Groupe PSA, having recently served as a general manager in Nissan group for Africa, Middle East and India.