Reporting directly to Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland Managing Director, Christian Coolsaet, Donnelly brings more than three decades of experience in the commercial vehicle sector.
He has progressed through a series of senior leadership roles within Volvo Trucks and other major organisations, building on a strong technical foundation gained during a 12-year career as a vehicle mechanic in the British Army. Since joining Volvo Group in 2009, he has held key positions across multiple sites, before being appointed Sales Director for Volvo Truck and Bus Centre South & East in 2022, when two wholly-owned dealer groups in the south of England merged.
Commenting on his appointment, Donnelly says: “Stepping into the role of Operations Director provides an opportunity to build on the success Volvo Truck and Bus Centre South & East has seen to-date and ensure we continue to deliver an exceptional standard of service. Operational performance is the backbone of customer satisfaction, and I see this role as an opportunity to refine every aspect of our processes.
“From workshop efficiency and parts availability to helping customers reduce their carbon footprint, my aim is to ensure every interaction with our business adds value. Volvo Trucks’ recent jump to take number one place in the UK tractor unit market in 2025 demonstrates the belief operators have in our colleagues, products, and dealers, with our wide-ranging portfolio providing an excellent foundation for success.”
On his ambitions for the dealer group’s future, he adds: “The recent and ongoing investment in our dealers is a clear sign of the trust Volvo Trucks has in our performance and long-term growth strategy. By investing in our people and embracing innovation, we will enhance customer experience and support sustainable growth. Our focus will be on delivering solutions that help customers succeed in a rapidly evolving transport industry.”
Donnelly succeeds Stuart Potter, who has been named as Volvo Trucks South Africa’s new Managing Director.
Volvo Truck and Bus Centre South & East is a wholly owned dealer group, with operations in Banbury, Bury St. Edmunds, Cambridge, Coventry, Felixstowe, Ipswich, Leicester, London Heathrow, London North, London South, Milton Keynes, Norwich, Peterborough, Reading, Thetford and Wellingborough, supported by its own specialist body and paint shop in Loughborough.