Cross Rental Services appoints new CEO as business delivers double-digit growth and UK expansion

Cross Rental Services has announced a planned leadership transition that sees UK MD Matt Parker stepping into the CEO role, alongside the appointment of a new Chief Financial Officer, as the business enters its next phase of growth.

The leadership changes took effect on 28 August 2026 and are designed to support the continued development of the Group across the UK and Ireland. After almost 7 years as CEO, Graeme Nesbitt will move into the role of Board Director & Strategic Advisor, remaining actively involved in developing the Group’s strategic development, key relationships and future growth.

The transition is part of a succession planning process agreed with the Board and investors and has been in development since Parker joined the Group in 2024 as UK Managing Director.

During Parker’s time at Cross Rental Services, he has led the UK business as Managing Director, playing a key role in the business’ growth and development. He has continued to strengthen its market position, investing in equipment, people and infrastructure, and expanding its capabilities across a wide range of sectors. The outcome has been double-digit year-on-year revenue growth in 2026 YTD, which gives credence to further planned investments to support its strategic growth initiatives.

Alongside the CEO transition, Russell Harrison has been appointed as CFO. Having qualified with PwC, his experience includes several senior leadership roles at New Look, including Group Finance Director, before moving to become CFO and COO at Hobbycraft. He joins Cross Rental Services from Churches Fire & Security, bringing significant experience in supporting and scaling multi-site private equity-backed organisations across retail, consumer and service-led sectors.

The appointments come at a significant time in the Group’s development. Following a strong 12 months of trading and continued investment in acquisitions, fleet, operations, engineering capability, and sales and marketing, the business is also continuing to expand its depot network. Additional sites in Warrington and Birmingham will deepen nationwide coverage, to support customers across the UK and Ireland.

Graeme Nesbitt, Board Director & Strategic Advisor at Cross Rental Services said: “Cross Rental Services has been a huge part of my career and I remain incredibly passionate about the business, its people and its future. This is a carefully planned transition and one that I believe positions the Group strongly for the years ahead.

“Matt has made a significant contribution since joining the business in 2024 and has played an important role in our growth and development. He has my full support as he takes on the role of CEO and I look forward to continuing to support the business, our customers and our shareholders in my new role.”

Matt Parker, CEO, adds: “Cross Rental Services has a strong reputation, exceptional people and significant opportunities ahead.

“Our focus will be on building on the expertise that exists across the Group, investing in engineering capabilities and continuing to develop specialist solutions that help our customers operate in some of the most demanding environments.”

Commenting on joining the business, Russell Harrison, CFO said: “Cross Rental Services has ambitious plans and strong foundations, making this an exciting time to join. My focus is on supporting the delivery of the Group’s strategy and ensuring we continue to invest in the things that matter to support long-term growth.”