The ECS Group, based at Wherstead Park in Ipswich, has appointed Tom Thornton-Jones as chief operating officer as it builds on more than three decades of growth in the global automotive sector.
Mr Thornton-Jones joined the company in 2012 and has played a central role in developing its operational capability and client relationships.
In his new role, he will focus on operational excellence, client value, solution development, and evolving the business as a trusted international standards partner.
Andrew Mellor, chief executive of The ECS Group, said: “Tom has breadth of experience, and we value both his vision for the market and for our own business.
“Our clients equally value his expertise, his judgement and his passion for what he does.
“His appointment as COO reflects the role he already plays in shaping ECS and the value we deliver for our clients.”
Founded in 1995, The ECS Group supports automotive manufacturers, importers, and dealer groups and complex service networks worldwide.
It delivers services across standards, auditing, compliance, coaching, technology and more, from its Suffolk headquarters.
Mr Thornton-Jones added: “ECS has always been at its best when we are close to our clients, listening carefully, understanding their challenges and building practical solutions that work in the real world.
“I am proud to take on this role and excited about the opportunity to help shape the next stage of the business.”
His appointment comes at a pivotal time for the automotive sector.
With the rise of new brands, accelerating electric vehicle adoption and increasing customer expectations, manufacturers face growing pressure to build resilient networks and strong after-sales infrastructure.