Paragon’s Group finance director Andrew Hetzel will take over the reins from Steve Maltby and become managing director of Paragon Fleet Solutions from April 1.

Maltby has announced his intention to retire by 2013 and will remain on the Paragon board until his retirement to lead Paragon Remarketing, providing strategic direction and overseeing the day to day management of the business.

Stephen Hucklesby, group managing director of Paragon, said: “I want to recognise the outstanding contribution that Steve has made to the Group over the past few years.

“He has, in effect, turned the Fleet Solutions business around ensuring that it runs efficiently, produces high quality and delivers excellent customer service. Though it may seem a while until he leaves us, we can safely say he remains an invaluable member of our senior management team and upon his departure, he will be greatly missed.”

Hetzel joined Paragon as the group financial director in 2006. His appointment as managing director for Fleet Solutions will mean he will be responsible for a team of 400 staff across four workshops and a large administration team, focusing on delivering for the customer.