Previously working as a UK sales manager in the insurance industry for over five years, Walton has a wealth of experience in managing and optimising customer support services.

In her new role she will be responsible for all inbound and outbound customer service calls in a move to strengthen communication channels within Northgate with the ultimate objective of providing customers with fast and flexible access to the 55,000-strong fleet of light commercial vehicles.

Walton said: ‘Joining the company at this exciting time provides me with a unique opportunity to strengthen the relationship between our network of branches and our dedicated Customer Support Centre. Strengthening these communication channels will help us to deliver a more efficient service for our customers – as a rapidly changing national company we place a strong focus on customer service delivery and continuous improvement within this area.

‘Historically, with a company of Northgate’s size, there is some separation between branches, customers and head office; I will be focusing on building synergy and quality customer care across the company as a whole.’

Northgate has sites across 69 locations in the UK, with its head office in Darlington.