First Stop has added the final piece to its new-look jigsaw in the shape of Business Development Manager Celine May, who is tasked with driving the network forward across Ireland.
Celine is a familiar face to many of First Stop Ireland’s partners, having worked in a number of positions for the brand’s former equity stores for seven years, featuring key account manager and procurement roles.
She joins Sarah Gardner, Shaun Sweeney and Nick Salt as business development managers across the UK and Ireland and will report to National Franchise Manager Brenden Marais. The new-look team is completed by Retail Managing Director Anton Wessels, who was also appointed in mid-2023.
Celine will be responsible for both Ireland and Northern Ireland regions and believes she has a head start in her role, having built up a unique understanding of the First Stop brand ever since taking up her first position in 2017.
She said: “I have an excellent understanding of the Irish Motor Industry having previously dealt with some of our partners, suppliers and potential customers. I see this as a great starting point. There are so many opportunities to grow our network in Ireland and our retail proposition has never been more attractive. I’m really excited to meet all of our partners and support them with their unique business requirements.”
The 36-year-old Dubliner is a hugely popular figure in the Irish automotive retail industry and highlighted First Stop’s e-commerce offering as a particular strength.
“I can’t wait to get out there and meet all our dealer partners and bring the benefits of our First Stop proposition to life. One of my areas of focus will be digital support and ways to maximise the potential from our e-commerce provision. Dealers need support, new business opportunities and ways to generate additional revenue and that’s what I’ll be looking to bring.”
First Stop’s Retail Managing Director Anton Wessels said: “We’re delighted to welcome Celine. I always say that the success of any network is underpinned by its people and with Celine in place, we have a great professional who will make up one of the best teams I could wish for.
“Celine knows the country as well as anyone, she is a highly respected professional in the industry and know that she will create a great impression with all of our partners.”
For more information about the First Stop Network and how to join, visit Join the First Stop Network