Andy Wright takes on the Middle East

At the end of last year Andy Wright was appointed to the newly-created position of chief executive, international operations, Mr Wright's decision to focus full-time on developing an expanded international business for Lavendon was made in July this year, although he was initially given responsibility in April 2010 for the oversight of its Middle East business, which he performed alongside his existing UK responsibilities.

The new role is based in Dubai and saw the transfer of Mr Wright's UK responsibilities Mike Potts.

Kevin Appleton, Lavendon Group chief executive, said, "Having moved to the region in June, Andy has identified exciting potential for an expanded international business model using our existing infrastructure in the Middle East as the foundation.

"Having built the plan and recognising its complexity, it makes a lot of sense for someone of Andy's seniority and skill to see this through. The success of our international business is a key value driver for Lavendon and, in Andy, we have matched this opportunity to a proven business talent."