UK-based Leyland Packaging has added Rebecca Dolan to its commercial team, appointing her as business development manager.

The move comes as the business seeks a larger share of the UK market.

Dolan has more than a decade of experience in the packaging industry.

In her previous post, she worked in a senior new business position at one of Europe’s biggest packaging groups, securing customer accounts in several sectors.

The new role at Leyland will see her work directly with customers from initial discussions through to fulfilment.

Dolan said: "I admire what Leyland Packaging is building, and my ambition here is simple: to help customers find the packaging solutions that are genuinely right for them, to build on Leyland's reputation for a personal, friendly service, and to support the wider growth of the business along the way.

"I'm looking forward to getting to know our customers, understanding their challenges, and helping provide packaging solutions that make a difference."

The hire forms part of a wider investment programme at Leyland Packaging. During the past year, the company has increased spending on staff, operations and marketing as part of its expansion plans.

Leyland Packaging managing partner Mark Bates said: “Rebecca has considerable experience and a clear understanding of the challenges packaging customers are facing today, and this is the perfect time to be bringing that kind of commercial experience into the business. She understands packaging, she knows what customers are looking for, and she has the track record to prove it.

"We’re an independent, family-run business with a clear vision for growth. Rebecca's appointment is part of a deliberate push to grow Leyland Packaging significantly over the next few years, and I'm looking forward to working closely with her to help make that happen.”