Bowker Motor Group has appointed Richard Cowell as Head of Business at Bowker BMW and MINI Blackburn on Trident Park after he completed the BMW Group Head of Business Certification.
Richard has moved into the role from his previous position as General Manager at the Blackburn dealership, having completed the executive qualification required by BMW Group for leaders of its retail centres. The certification is delivered through the BMW Group Academy and includes assessment in financial governance, operational leadership, brand standards and long-term business planning.
Richard Cowell, Head of Business at Bowker BMW and MINI Blackburn, said: “I began working for Bowker 27 years ago, so to become Head of Business is a proud moment. I started as a teenager and have worked my way through the business.
“The certification was challenging, but it has given me a broader understanding of every part of the dealership. I’m grateful to everyone who’s supported me along the way, and I’m looking forward to leading the Blackburn team into the future.”
Richard joined Bowker as a Parts Delivery Driver and Parts Advisor before progressing through parts, sales and sales management roles. He was appointed Group General Sales Manager for BMW and MINI in 2021 and became General Manager at Bowker Blackburn in January 2026 while working towards the Head of Business qualification.
Chris Eccles, Managing Director at Bowker Motor Group, said: “Richard’s career shows what’s possible when someone combines commitment with a willingness to keep learning. He’s taken every opportunity to develop throughout his time with Bowker, and completing the Head of Business Certification is the culmination of years of hard work. I’m delighted to see him take on this role and know he’ll continue to support the team and our customers.”
The BMW Head of Business Certification is the executive qualification required by BMW Group for individuals leading a BMW or combined BMW and MINI retail centre. The programme covers operational governance, financial management, leadership, compliance with BMW retail standards and strategic planning, with candidates assessed through academy modules, business case presentations and leadership evaluation.
Richard’s appointment follows his promotion to General Manager at the beginning of 2026, when he assumed responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the Blackburn dealership while continuing to complete the certification.
