Whitaker, who started in the newly created role last month, will be responsible for a team of five external national sales managers. He will be tasked with developing the firm’s existing customer relationships while also securing new contracts.

“Some of my key responsibilities in this role will be to develop sales processes, implement sales reporting for full visibility, liaise with our marketing team to align our marketing strategy with our sales strategy, produce targeted sales materials to support my team and ultimately achieve and exceed our sales goals,” said Whitaker.

“My main objective is raising the profile of Paragon Group UK to demonstrate how we can add value to businesses strategic objectives and targets to improve their customer engagement throughout the customer journey; from building brand affinity to providing data-driven communications to aid the acquisition of new clients.”

In the 12 months before joining Paragon Group UK, Whitaker ran his own company, supporting businesses to develop their sales activities and marketing strategies to help achieve their business targets and objectives.

He has also previously worked as a business unit manager at a label printing company where he managed a team of 20 in customer service, sales, design and manufacturing areas.

Paragon Group UK general manager Phil Constantine said: “We welcome Simon to Paragon and know that his appointment will further strengthen our sales team.

“As a print specialist with over 20 years experience, we are in a position to offer our customers the very latest innovations. We know that with his previous experience, Simon will showcase this to current and prospective clients.”

Paragon Group UK has manufacturing sites across Europe and a combined turnover in excess of €200m (£159m). In May the firm bought Service Point UK out of administration, saving more than 400 jobs in the UK and more in Scandinavia.