Bowker confirms leadership restructure across BMW and MINI centres

Bowker Motor Group has announced a series of leadership changes across its BMW and MINI operations in Lancashire, as part of a wider strategic restructure ahead of 2026.

The family-owned automotive retailer has appointed Chris Eccles as Managing Director and Head of Business at its BMW and MINI centre in Preston. Chris steps into the role after serving as Managing Director at Bowker Blackburn, a role he will retain.

With 25 years at Bowker, he will now also lead the Preston dealership while also mentoring the wider leadership teams across both Preston and Blackburn sites. Chris takes over from Jonathan Rogan, who is stepping down as Head of Business at Preston to take up a new group-wide role, to be formally announced shortly.

Chris Eccles said: “After more than two decades at Bowker, it’s a privilege to take the reins at Preston. I’m looking forward to working closely with the team here while continuing to support the wider leadership group across both sites.”

Richard Cowell has been appointed general manager at Bowker Blackburn, stepping into the day-to-day leadership of the site after serving as BMW and MINI group general sales manager since 2021.

Craig Stephenson, previously New Car Sales Manager at Bowker Blackburn, will succeed Cowell as BMW and MINI Group General Sales Manager.

Richard’s appointment at Blackburn follows a 27-year career with Bowker, having started in the late 1990s. His move is part of the group’s long-standing approach to internal development and succession planning. Craig, who joined Bowker in 2021, will now support new and used sales across both BMW and MINI dealerships, as well as contribute to the growth of Bowker’s non-franchise sales division.

The restructure follows earlier leadership changes in 2021 that aligned the Preston and Blackburn centres under a unified sales strategy.

The latest round of appointments signals Bowker’s continued focus on future growth and leadership continuity as the business prepares for new partnerships and brand launches in 2026.

Jonathan Rogan said: “It’s been a fantastic journey leading the team at Preston, and I’m looking forward to what comes next in my new role. There’s a lot happening across the group, and it’s an exciting time to be part of Bowker’s next phase.”