SMT has announced the appointment of Phil Battle as Managing Director for Great Britain, effective 1 October 2026.
With more than two decades of leadership experience in the construction equipment industry, CEA Board Director Phil Battle will lead SMT in Great Britain into its next chapter of customer-focused growth, innovation and sustainability. Phil succeeds Nick Allen, who has stepped down.
Since joining SMT in 2020, Phil has held a number of senior leadership positions. In his previous role as Divisional Director for Volvo CE Product & Services, he led a national team of approximately 350 colleagues across nine customer support locations, with responsibility for commercial sales and service operations across Great Britain for Volvo Construction Equipment.
Across his career, Phil has developed a strong reputation for strategic leadership, customer partnership and operational excellence. His work has supported business growth, strengthened teams and helped advance transformation across the markets he has served.
Phil also serves as a Board Director of the CEA, leading its ESG and environmental sustainability portfolio. Phil is widely recognised for his commitment to innovation and sustainability, reflected through both his industry leadership and continued professional development.
As Managing Director, Phil will lead SMT's operations across Great Britain. His priorities will include supporting colleagues, deepening customer partnerships and pursuing opportunities in innovation, sustainability and profitable growth across the company’s markets.
Jérôme Barioz, CEO of SMT, says: “Phil’s deep industry knowledge, customer focus and commitment to developing people make him exceptionally well placed to lead SMT in Great Britain through its next chapter. His appointment recognises both his outstanding contribution to SMT and the leadership he brings to our customers, colleagues and wider industry. I am delighted to welcome Phil as Managing Director in Great Britain and look forward to seeing SMT continue to grow under his leadership.”
Phil Battle, incoming Managing Director, says: “It is a privilege to be appointed Managing Director for Great Britain. SMT has exceptional people, strong partnerships and a proud commitment to supporting customers throughout Great Britain. I am excited to build on those strengths, work with colleagues across the business and lead our next phase of customer-focused, sustainable growth."
Phil Battle, incoming Managing Director for Great Britain at SMT