Mazda Motor Europe said Kevin Rice, Design Director Europe, would be leaving the company after five years "to pursue a career outside of Mazda".

Englishman Rice rejoined the automaker in Germany towards the end of 2013 after 13 years at BMW where, according to a media report at the time, he was responsible for exterior development of many models including the 3 and 4 Series.

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He's a graduate of Coventry University's Transportation Design programme and began his career at Opel in 1986 before moving on through Giugiaro Ital Design to his first (five year) stint with Mazda in 2000.

Jeff Guyton, president of Mazda Motor Europe said: "As part of the global Mazda design group, Kevin has led a team in Europe who have made significant contributions to the success of our business both in Europe and globally. We will miss his energy and passion and wish him every success in the next stage of his career."

A successor will be named soon.

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