Paragon Software Systems co-founder and director Charles Nockold has announced he will retire after nearly 35 years.

Nockold (pictured) who will retire this year joined the Paragon team in 1984 when it was part of PA Consulting Group.

Originally hired as part of the development team, he was involved in the programming of some of Paragon’s early planning algorithms as well as providing technical support to customers.

Nockold then moved into sales and went on to hold some of the most senior management roles within the business covering sales, marketing, legal, partnerships and strategic responsibilities.

“I am proud to have played a part in establishing Paragon as a market-leader in the UK and expanding the business internationally to more than 60 countries,” said Nockold.

“The transport sector has changed beyond recognition during the last 30 years, with the role of planning becoming far more sophisticated and absolutely central to the wider supply chain operations for many of our customers. 

“What has remained the same is the importance of going the extra mile for customers. This has helped us to create a highly-successful company that has always kept pace with the rapid rate of development within the industry.”

He contributed to a host of major developments and “industry firsts” for the transport sector, such as the launch of the “first” home delivery planning tool and initiating Paragon’s first telematics partnership.

Nockold said: ''I will take a lot of satisfaction from having been one of the people who started this journey for the Paragon business back in 1991.

“It is amazing to see how far Paragon has come since we began, and with its great team, superb products and impressive list of clients, the company is well placed for continued success.

“Our guiding principles were always to look after our clients, focus on what we are good at and be fair to staff. These core values are still fundamental to our business culture today.

Paragon Software Systems’ managing director William Salter said: “Charles has made a tremendous contribution to Paragon’s business having been involved in development, sales, marketing and partnerships over the last 30 years.

“From a small team of less than 10 people, he has seen the company grow to over 100 employees supporting systems in more than 60 countries.

"His experience, passion and dedication have been invaluable to this success and I have personally learnt a huge amount from him.”

Nockold will continue to work with Paragon on a part-time consultancy basis to ensure a seamless transition and provide valuable guidance to the business going forward.

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