Whalen to quit Peugeot

The man credited with turning Peugeot Talbot from a car industry joke into one of Britain's most successful companies is stepping down, writes Russell Hotten.

Geoffrey Whalen, 58, the Coventry-based company's deputy chairman and a high- profile spokesman for the motor industry, said he wanted to take on new challenges before he grew too old. He will be replaced on 1 November by Richard Parham, currently assistant managing director.

Analysts were surprised by yesterday's announcement, but one said that Mr Whalen's task of transforming the company was largely complete and he 'could leave while he was ahead'.

Mr Whalen said he was talking to several companies about future employment, but this would not necessarily be in the car industry.