He will be responsible for developing a pan-European business network to promote HH Associates' products and services. Onslow has held directorial positions at retailers Adams Childrenswear, Asda, The Caudwell Group and Arcadia.

"I strongly believe that HH Associates has the expertise and infrastructure to compete for major European contracts," said Onslow.

"By attracting a professional of his calibre to our organisation, it sends a message out about how seriously we are taking our European strategy," added HH Associates managing director Robert MacMillan.

The appointment follows HH Associates' decision to set up a Leeds office to expand its portfolio in the north of England.

Story by Philip Chadwick