Steer Automotive Group strengthens leadership team with senior appointments

Steer Automotive Group has announced two senior leadership changes as it continues to strengthen its commercial capability and deepen partnerships across the insurance and automotive sectors.

The business has promoted Steve Hoe to Head of OEM Paint & Body Partnerships, while also appointing Adele Brownsell as UK Group Client Partnership Director, reflecting Steer’s ongoing investment in strategic client relationships and operational excellence.

Steve Hoe steps into his new role after serving as Head of Academy & Organisation Development, where he played a central role in establishing the Steer Training Academy and developing a consistent pipeline of highly skilled apprentices. His work has been particularly significant at a time when the automotive repair sector faces well-documented skills challenges.

Steve first joined the AW business in the East Midlands in 2001 and was instrumental in developing the organisation’s OEM Paint & Body approval portfolio before the business was acquired by Steer Automotive in 2023. In his new position, he will lead Steer’s prestige and mainstream OEM Paint & Body programmes, acting as a key point of contact for manufacturer partners while continuing to be supported by Jane Landells, OEM Partnership Administrator.

Richard Thorogood, Chief Commercial Officer at Steer Automotive Group, said: “Within this space, this is an exciting time of refinement and development for Steer Automotive, and delivering exceptional outcomes for our Manufacturing Partnership clients remains a critical cornerstone of our business strategy. The expertise, professionalism and strong market reputation Steve has built over a number of years made him the perfect choice for this well-earned recognition and promotion.”

Alongside this promotion, Steer has also welcomed Adele Brownsell as UK Group Client Partnership Director. The newly created senior role will oversee Steer’s national client partnership function, providing strategic oversight across insurer, fleet, OEM and mobility relationships.

Adele brings more than 20 years of experience across motor claims, supply chain and account management leadership. Her appointment is intended to further strengthen Steer’s ability to support evolving client requirements and deliver long-term value across its national network.

Commenting on her appointment, Richard added: “We recognised that to achieve our client and business goals, we needed to build an outstanding team to deliver our ambition. We are delighted that Adele has joined our journey and will be the focal point of that team and in turn client activity.”