Tim Ward has been promoted to NGK Spark Plugs (UK) national sales manager for the UK and Ireland.

The 49-year-old was formerly key accounts manager for the North where he was also responsible for buying group business and leading the northern sales team.

In his new role Ward will be responsible for heading the NGK sales operation in the UK and Ireland.

Ward has been with the company for the past 10 years, having previously worked in the automotive industry for Tetrosyl and Snap-on.

Replacing Ward as Key accounts manager for the north is Stuart Bayne, six-time winner of the NGK Salesman of the Year title.

Bayne has been with NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd for the past 19 years and moves from the position of area sales representative for East Anglia and the East Midlands. In his new role, he will be responsible for buying group business and leading the northern sales team.