Container pooling provider, Chep Automotive and Industrial Solutions, has appointed Laurent Le Mercier to the newly created position of senior vice president, Global Automotive. [sam_ad id=6 codes='true']

Le Mercier will head Chep's local automotive businesses around the world and develop it into one customer-focused business unit, according to the company.

The company went on to say that by operating as a unified global business, Chep Automotive and Industrial Solutions would be better positioned to work in partnership with automotive manufacturers and suppliers across all regions and help them drive operational efficiency, increase sustainability and lower their total supply chain costs.

Prior to his appointment, Le Mercier was country general manager for Chep Pallets in France for four years. In that role he worked to improve customer satisfaction and cost performance, and fostered innovation through the launch of the layer cardboard pallet.

He joined Chep in 2004 and supported the reorganisation of the Sales and Customer Service division for Chep Europe. He also served as key account director for Europe as Chep's general manager for Poland, and then for Central Europe. 

Before joining Chep, Le Mercier worked for Peugeot in various sales and operations roles in Europe. Additionally, as a strategy consultant, he helped develop global customer relationship strategies for market-leading businesses in the steel and automotive industries.