Meet Alan and Mark, our BMW & MINI Brand Managers at Lloyd North Tyneside

Meet Alan and Mark, our Brand Managers at Lloyd North Tyneside!

As our Brand Managers, Alan and Mark bring a wealth of experience to our new Lloyd North Tyneside centre, as well as a genuine passion for the BMW and MINI brands. They’re here to lead our sales teams with a clear vision, focusing on creating exceptional customer experiences and maintaining the high standards that we strive for. Keep reading to find out more about them!

How did you get started in the motor trade?

“I started in the trade roughly 10 years ago as a New Car Sales Trainee for Volkswagen. I spent 3 years there before joining Lloyd Motor Group in Newcastle as a New Car Sales Executive, and then worked my way up the business to become a Retail Sales Manager in the New Car sales department.

“I then joined what was Stratstone in December 2023 as Head of BMW Sales, and have now become the BMW Brand Manager for Lloyd North Tyneside following our recent acquisition”.
 

What’s the most rewarding part of your job at Lloyd North Tyneside BMW?

“Working with and developing our sales team is the most rewarding part, as some members of the team are fairly new to the trade. Sharing my experience and best practice to help the team develop, and seeing them grow both inside and outside of the business, gives me immense pride”.
 

What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you outside of work?

“I have 3 daughters, so the majority of my free time involves me being Dad’s taxi!”
 

If you could spend a week anywhere in the world, where would it be?

“This one’s easy, Orlando Florida. I love the theme parks, weather, food and shopping”.
 

Quickfire questions:

• Summer or Winter? Summer
• Cats or Dogs? “Dogs”
• Coffee or tea? “Tea”
• City drives or countryside road trips? “City Drives”
• Go-to road trip song? “Tough one! At the minute, Not Like Us by Kendrick Lamar”

How did you get started in the motor trade?

“I got started through a combination of passion and opportunity. From a young age, I was fascinated with cars - My dad was a mechanic, working on trucks and buses, and I often spent time with him in the garage. My uncle had a lifetime career in sales of various things, from mobile phones, utilities, and cars, all the way up to owning his own business selling holiday homes and lets in Spain.

“After college, I decided I wanted to pursue a career in the motor trade on the sales side of the business rather than in the workshop, as I really enjoyed dealing with people and learning about new technologies in cars and how they progress.

“Eventually, I secured a position as a Sales Executive. This role allowed me to learn the business, understand customers’ requirements, their needs and wants and help them to find the perfect vehicle.

“My journey in the motor trade has been incredibly rewarding; over the years, I’ve worked with some niche brands and visited some amazing places. I continue to be passionate about helping customers find the right cars while staying informed about the latest industry trends”.
 

What’s the most rewarding part of your job at Lloyd North Tyneside MINI?

“The most rewarding part of my job is the opportunity to help customers find the perfect vehicle that meets their needs and lifestyle. There’s something truly satisfying about guiding someone through the car buying process and seeing their excitement when they drive away in their new MINI.

“I also feel a huge sense of reward watching my team grow and achieve their work and personal goals, and celebrating their achievements.

“It’s gratifying to know we’re not just selling cars; we’re creating memorable experiences and contributing to our customers’ and teams’ lives”.
 

If you could spend a week anywhere in the world, where would it be?

“Canada! The landscapes are amazing – from the Rocky Mountains to the peaceful coastlines, there's so much to see and do.  I’d love to hike in Whistler and explore Vancouver. Plus, there’s all the local culture and fresh food to enjoy, and visiting places like Yoho or Jasper National Parks would be incredible. Canada is a dream destination for me!”
 

What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you outside of work?

“I am a low-key adrenaline junkie. I enjoy anything that is a little dangerous or gets the adrenaline pumping. I have previously participated in activities such as sky-diving, off roading, white-water rafting, zip-lining, and snowboarding. I also enjoy my motorbikes - I've previously taken road trips around Europe visiting a number of countries through some amazing scenic routes in the Alps, Germany and Italy”.
 

Quickfire Questions:

• Summer or Winter? "Ooooh, Neither – Autumn is the best season hands down"
• Cats or Dogs? "Dogs, no brainer – I have 2 Cockapoos – Nala and Arlo"
• Coffee or tea? "Tea – Got to be Yorkshire"
• City drives or countryside road trips? "Countryside Roadtrips"
• Go-to road trip song? "Back in Black – AC/DC"​​​​