In the year of the Olympics in London, a man from Westhoughton is already celebrating after achieving two landmarks in his career in the same month.
Jim Hobson marked 35 years in the automotive industry just a few days after being named the 2011 UK manager of the year for global automotive firm, Inchcape.
The head of business at Manchester Volkswagen Van Centre in Trafford Park, beat off competition from over 175 managers, from across Inchcape UK’s retailer car and van retailer network.
The 55-year-old started in 1977 as a sales executive, before progressing his career with roles including, sales manager and general manager.
Jim said: “The start of 2012 has been incredible and I’m thrilled to have won such a prestigious award, but for it to coincide with 35 years in the automotive industry is very special.
“The Inchcape award is humbling because without the support and hard work of all my colleagues at Manchester Volkswagen Van Centre, it wouldn’t have been possible.
“The industry has undergone many changes since I started and it’s been a privilege to have been part of the positive changes over the decades.”
Jim is now looking forward to adding to the awards and celebrations by driving the van centre to reach new goals in this special year.
He added: “I may have been given this Inchcape award but the job I do needs a team to carry it out.
“Everyone who works at Manchester Volkswagen Van Centre plays a key role in delivering a service that customers deserve from such a prestigious brand.
“I know the team will continue to provide Greater Manchester with one of the UK’s best automotive retailers with and it potentially winning more awards for the van centre.”