Chartered mechanical engineer Bob Gowans (pictured) has joined Andover Trailers to take on a new role as commercial manager.

He joins the Hampshire-based plant body and heavy haulage trailer manufacturer after four years at Mercedes-Benz, where he held the role of heavy truck product manager and was responsible for launching the new Actros and Arocs Euro VI ranges into the UK. Prior to joining Mercedes-Benz in December 2010 he worked in several engineering roles within Leyland Trucks, in the final position acting as lead engineer for sales engineering and homologation.

Gowans said: “Andover Trailers’ reputation for quality in the industry is second-to-none; it fits in well with where I’ve come from. The chance to join the firm in its 30th anniversary year, and in a position where I feel I can make a real difference, was a huge draw.”

“Andover’s customers are responsible for moving some of the most challenging payloads which travel by road in the UK, so the stakes with every job are that much higher than in general haulage.

“It’s hard to think of another sector within road transport where downtime can be as costly; which is precisely why so many operators put their trust in Andover Trailers. I’m thrilled to be joining the company and am thoroughly looking forward to helping to shape its future.”

He will report to managing director Tim Wright andwill be based at the company’s headquarters and main manufacturing site in Andover.