PETER Hull, the former chief executive of Farmway, has been appointed commercial manager of H&H Land and Property.

Mr Hull, from Northallerton, has joined the Carlisle and Durham-based business, where he will implement business development initiatives for the company which deals with all aspects of rural property across the North of England, the Borders and South West Scotland.

He headed farmer-controlled Farmway for more than a decade until it became part of the Mole Valley Group in 2013. The £40m turnover business operated a chain of stores across the North, had its own compound feed production unit and grain storage facility.

Mr Hull was responsible for restructuring and reorganising the business, converting it to a PLC from an industrial and provident society, and overseeing the introduction of new products and IT systems.

John Robson, managing director of H&H Land and Property, said: “This is a newly created position and I know that Peter’s strong track-record in business reorganisation will be a great asset to us as we continue to grow the company.

“We have expanded hugely in recent years, especially since we opened our Durham office three years ago. Someone of Peter’s calibre and experience will be invaluable in helping us put the systems in place to continue this growth and expansion.”

Mr Hull’s responsibilities include organising practice administration to support and deliver the business’ professional services and overseeing the development of the company’s IT systems and marketing policies. He will also liaise with the directors to formulate new strategies, policies, plans and budgets.

He said: “I am delighted to have joined at a point where the business is expanding so rapidly, and I am looking forward to using my skills to help align the company to meet the growing demands of its market.

“I will initially be focusing on bringing the commercial back room of the business into one smooth and efficient operation, which will prepare it to efficiently handle the current and future expansion. At the heart of this is setting up systems to support our customers, and ensure we can service their needs in the most efficient and effective manner."