Previously regional operations manager at Northgate, Branch will take on responsibility for Northgate’s UK operational strategy across its network of 67 branches and 55,000 vehicles and will be the newest addition to the UK Management Team.

He will also be responsible for the rental and workshop areas of the company, as well as the company’s Customer Support Centre in Darlington

Branch said: ‘Having worked with Northgate for a number of years I am delighted to be afforded this opportunity to complement the existing operational strategy and drive it forward. 2014 is set to be a busy year, with plans already in place to expand the company’s existing network of 67 branches to 90 in the next two to three years – effective operation is key to its success, so it’s a very exciting time to be appointed as UK operations director.’