Thatcham has appointed Mike Paterson in the newly created role of business development manager.

The motor industry research company said the new role was created in a bid to maximise opportunities for its research centre.

Paterson joined Thatcham this week and will be responsible for seeking out business opportunities both domestically and internationally, recognising opportunities for product development and developing joint business ventures.

He joins Thatcham from his role as senior sales manager at Polk Automotive and previously, nine years experience at EurotaxGlass’s, most recently as senior key account manager specialising in information sales to all markets.

Lesley Upham, who directs the communications department at Thatcham, said, “The appointment of a business development manager is key to Thatcham’s business growth strategy and will ensure the centre capitalises on its growing reputation as the leading worldwide experts on crash repair and vehicle technologies.

“There is an increasing level of interest in Thatcham’s research from overseas markets and Paterson’s appointment will put us in a position to develop this global status.”