Rolls-Royce has appointed its first new design director in more than a decade as it works on its next generation of ultimate luxury cars.

Giles Taylor will assume the lead design role on July 1 – just 15 months after joining Rolls-Royce as head of exterior design – reporting directly to BMW Group design senior vice president Adrian van Hooydonk. The 44-year-old Briton succeeds Ian Cameron, who retires from the position he has held since 1999.

Taylor studied design in the UK and has held a number of international design roles. He spent 10 years as an executive designer in the British car industry where he was responsible for overseeing the design of the current-generation Jaguar XJ and XK.

Van Hooydonk and Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Muller-Otvos were glowing in their approval of Taylor’s appointment.

“Giles Taylor brings with him exceptional design skills and a comprehensive understanding of British values and heritage that are so crucial to Rolls-Royce,” van Hooydonk said. “I have no doubt that he will successfully continue to develop the outstanding design ethos so successfully created by Ian Cameron and his team.”

Muller-Otvos: “Giles Taylor has a deep knowledge of emotive brands in the luxury segment and a proven track record, and is the perfect choice to lead the Rolls-Royce design team to future success.”

Muller-Otvos also thanked Cameron for his contribution to Rolls-Royce’s resurgence. Cameron was responsible for designing the current-generation Phantom and Ghost and every subsequent model in those families.

Rolls-Royce sold 3538 vehicles in 2011 – the best result in the marque’s 107-year history – eclipsing its previous record set in 1978. Rolls-Royce Australia sold 20 cars last year.