Fleet and automotive industry specialist Barry Beeston has joined courtesy car giant Circle Leasing as managing director.

(L-R) Dennis Studholme, Barry Beeston and Aidan Minogue of Circle Leasing

Beeston was previously regional director of Northern Europe at Infiniti UK, but has also held numerous senior leadership positions within Nissan, including as director – corporate sales at Nissan GB.

His appointment allows current MD Aidan Minogue – who co-founded the firm in 2002 with Dennis Studholme – to step into the chief executive role.

Commenting on Beeston’s appointment, Minogue said: “With Barry, we have secured a high-calibre executive who shares a great passion for Circle Leasing and its future prospects. He will be responsible for creating a very enjoyable, dynamic environment of growth which will lead to numerous opportunities in new markets, all with the twin goals of enabling the business to thrive in the future and enhancing the customer experience.

“This change enables me to move away from day-to-day operations and focus on developing new strategies for the business. Remaining close to the business means that I can also help Barry and the team improve and develop our business processes as we become more efficient and ready to capitalise on the opportunities available to us,” he added.