Northgate Vehicle Hire has welcomed a new senior staff member to its team this month, with the appointment of John Deacon as area sales manager for the North East.

Previously working as business development manager at the Saon Group, John Deacon brings with him a wealth of expertise and experience in sales management and staff training.

He will be responsible for driving sales in the North East, along with heading up business relations and prospects for five of Northgate’s 60 sites.

Jonathan Pearce, marketing manager at Northgate Vehicle Hire, said: “Throughout 2012 Northgate Vehicle Hire has continued to grow from strength to strength.

"We have recorded an annual profit rise of 11%, which, in turn, has lead us to investment in both infrastructure and people.

"We are delighted to have welcomed John to the team and we have every confidence that his wealth of experience will assist Northgate in its growth moving forward.”