North, who will become the first assistant editor on the title since it was launched in 1998, has many years of experience in trade magazine publishing, having worked as an editor on publications covering topics as diverse as financial software and banking, food processing and packaging, pharmaceuticals and healthcare.

He graduated from University College London with a degree in philosophy in 1996, before developing his skills as a writer at a press monitoring business. Like editor Richard Howes, he is an alumnus of the class of 2000 at Lambeth College’s renowned journalism training school.

He has worked on Cranes Today for two years. As well as developing an extensive knowledge of the lifting, special transport and construction industries, he has demonstrated a formidable talent as a writer and editor. He lead the development of the magazine’s new ‘Back Page’ readers’ section, and worked closely with cranes group editor Will Dalrymple on the redesign of its news section, bringing to the magazine a new approach to the relationship between print and web.

North said: “It is a delight to be able to work with Richard Howes and the rest of the team on Hoist, after watching all the hard work they have put into developing this unique and important title. I look forward to developing my knowledge of a new facet of the lifting industry, and hope to be able to live up to the high standards that they have set.”

Richard Howes said: “I’m delighted to welcome Will on board. He has proven during his time on Cranes Today that he can produce high quality, analytical editorial content. He will be a valuable asset as we continue the growth of the world’s only international factory crane title,” he added.

Contact Will North at wnorth@progressivemediagroup.com.