Chippenham-based automotive sector learning and development agency RTS has recruited Rachel Smith to head its Mazda Academy team, which works with customer-facing staff at Mazda dealerships throughout the UK.
Rachel, pictured, from Swindon, started her career in retail banking with HSBC. She then moved into business development for the bank, specialising in change management – among the projects she was involved with was the relocation of 8,000 staff to the new Canary Wharf tower. 
She also managed branches in Chippenham, Corsham and Calne, before moving to NatWest as a private banking manager.
Rachel’s role at RTS will allow her to use her project and change management skills.
She said: “I am really excited by this new challenge. The Mazda Academy team are young, dynamic and passionate ambassadors of the brand and it’s a real pleasure to be working with them.
“I am looking forward to helping the team build on an already great client relationship, and to make delivery even more proactive and dynamic.”
RTS managing director Malcolm Miller said: “We are delighted that Rachel has joined the Mazda team. Her experience and knowledge from the banking world and her natural enthusiasm will really strengthen the team and their support to Mazda people across the UK.”
Mazda Academy head Carl Gregory added: “It is great to be able to welcome Rachel to the Mazda Academy. We have taken some significant steps during the past year to work more closely with dealers and improve their performance.
“Rachel’s experience in team development and change management will strengthen our ability to support the dealer network and provide staff with the right resources to develop their businesses. I am really looking forward to working with her to achieve our goals.”
RTS specialises in helping car manufacturers such as Ford, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz and Toyota develop frontline staff working in their dealerships. The firm trades across Europe, South Africa and the Middle East.
