John Horn has retired as UK Sales Director at Optare after 45 years in the industry.  The decision will enable him to spend more time with his family at their home on the South Coast.  John will hand over the reins to Tim Matthews.

John joined the industry straight from school as an apprentice coach builder in Portsmouth, during his apprenticeship he met his now wife of over 40 years, Sheila. John joined East Lancashire Coach Builders in 1996 which later became Optare.

Enrico Vassallo, ‘CEO of Optare, said, “Everyone at Optare wishes John well for the future. John is well known by everyone at Optare and we thank him for his contribution to the company over the last 18 years he has worked for the firm.”

John Horn, said, “I am looking forward to spending more time with my family in Portsmouth and watching the mid-week games at Pompey. I wish Tim every success in his new role.”

 Tim Matthews, Head of Sales for UK and Ireland said, “I’m looking forward to my new challenge at Optare, I’m honoured to have worked with John and wish him all the best for the future.”

David Siviero, Sales, Marketing and Service Director, “John is well respected at Optare and has been a pleasure to work with and I wish him all the very best.  I look forward to working with Tim to support the company in achieving growth in the UK and Ireland.”