Sign Language makes two appointments to support fleet business growth

Vehicle graphics and wrapping specialist Sign Language has signalled its intentions to expand in 2015 with two new appointments.

Expected to be the first of a number of new appointments during 2015 as the company recruits to meet a fast-growing order bank and customer base, Vikkie Barker has joined as national accounts manager and Claire Howarth as accounts services manager - logistics.

Sign Language is predicting a 50% increase in business in 2015 following a doubling of turnover last year and that expansion has led to the creation of the roles.

Barker, who has spent 15 years working in the fleet industry including positions at the AA, National Windscreens and RAC, will notably focus on winning new business and managing relations with existing major customers.

It is a role that has historically been performed by Tobin Jenkins in addition to his responsibilities as Sign Language managing director. However, business growth has necessitated the new appointment with duties shared with Jenkins.

Barker said: “Fleet decision-makers are under budgetary pressure so are looking for high quality service and products at competitive prices, which is exactly what Sign Language offers. The company has established a very professional reputation in the fleet industry underlined by its expansion record and my new role provides an opportunity to contribute to its growth aspirations.”

Meanwhile, Howarthhas joined Sign Language from Amey Fleet and Plant, a business unit within public services provider Amey, where she was a member of the commercial vehicle procurement team.

At Sign Language, Howarth is responsible for managing the entire logistics programme including vehicle location, graphics ordering and delivery and fitment by the company’s own applicators and national network of sub-contractors through to final sign-off.

She said: “I am familiar with vehicle livery and the logistics process from my years with Amey and was looking to progress my career. Sign Language is an expanding and progressive company and that growth meant a dedicated role was created to handle the entire logistics process.”

Sign Language anticipates further appointments in 2015, including that of a dedicated marketing manager.

Jenkins said: “2014 saw a sea-change in the size of the business and that is a reflection of the many initiatives we have implemented to gear ourselves up to meet the requirements of the fleet market.

“The appointments of both Vikkie and Claire support the foundations that we have put in place and will further underpin the company’s growth aspirations.”