About the authors
Darren Peacock
Head of Marketing and Intermediaries
I started at Avis in June 2007 and to say the time has gone quickly is an understatement. Our business is very fast moving with changes on a daily basis from new fleet, locations through to new products in to the market.
I have spent my whole career in the travel industry in a number of different companies including my last role at United Airlines.
I hope to be able to help customers on the blog with questions about Avis and to bring some of my previous travel experience and passion.
Outside of Avis I love travelling, exploring new places and visiting old favourites including Barcelona and Chicago.
Jonathan Bowman
Ecommerce Marketing Manager
I’ve worked in the travel and leisure industry for most of my career, but only joined Avis in the last year. For me blogging is not only a fantastic way for Avis to share our passion for travel and car hire, but also for readers to express their opinions too.
In this business it helps if you love to travel… and I definitely do! Whether it’s sunbathing in Jamaica, shark diving in Cape Town or drinking coffee in Paris, I’m always looking for that next destination to enjoy.
When I’m not at work my time is focussed on my wife and baby daughter. Although I try and make time to watch a little football too!
What car would you be and why?!
I’d be a MG MGB Convertible – traditional, British and loves to cruise around on a sunny day.
Joana Rourke
Marketing Executive
As a recent employee and with a passion for cars it was a pleasure to join the Marketing team. Over a space of 5 months, the knowledge gained regarding the world of car rental is extraordinary. Being a part of the blogging team gives me a great opportunity to share this and experienced gained.
I have a background in customer services in the retail industry and graduated from Bournemouth University in 2011 with a BSc (Hons) in Computer Aided Product Design. Going from 3D modelling to marketing was quite a change but has given me the chance to use my skills in customer perception and problem solving.
When I’m not working I enjoy going to the gym, reading and with being half Scottish and half Portuguese I am currently attending an evening class to learn Portuguese! *clears throat* Onde está a estação de aluguer de automóveis?
What car would you be and why?!
Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 in dark blue with the two white racing stripes. It is like a pair of good stilettos, it’ll never go out of fashion.
Kate Winthrop
Social Media Executive
I’ve been at Avis for just over two months now, having spent 3 years working in an agency. I love all the change that has come with joining Avis and I love working here!
As you can probably imagine, I love Social Media and in my spare time run my own fashion blog. I consider myself a digital hoarder and I love finding stuff that gives you an insight into a whole new world (my current favourite being this twitter account @Cmdr_Hadfield – which belongs to an astronaut who tweets as he goes about his business in space – lots of cool pictures!)
What car would you be and why?!
I’ve been told I’d be a Fiat 500, which I’m assured is because they’re sweet and little, and not because they’re difficult to get along with. 
Cherith Graham
Marketing Communications Coordinator
I joined Avis in July 2012 but it only seems like yesterday! I work on marketing materials that are created centrally at our EMEA HQ as well as ensuring the Avis brand is never compromised. You wouldn’t believe how quickly you learn the differences in shades of red! Working for Avis is lots of fun and you get to meet and work with lots of people in a number of departments.
I love the idea of the Avis blog as it lets our customers interact with us directly about really interesting topics, we really value customer input!
Outside of work I love travelling to see friends in various places, going out for dinner and seeing live music!
What car would you be and why?!
If I was a car I’d be a Nissan Micra! Small and unassuming, yet lots of fun and always reliable.
Ben Stephenson
Echannel Manager
I joined Avis in 2007 on the web development team and have been involved in the website ever since. I now work in the Marketing Department but am still focused on the website and trying to make it as easy to use as possible. I joined Avis because of my love of cars and driving, and have made full use of the rental fleet to drive a wide selection of cars for holidays in Europe and the USA. Before Avis I worked for an ecommerce agency writing online shops for a number of high street names.
What car would you be and why?!
I would be an Audi RS6. Most of the time I’m sensible and useful, but when once I get going you can’t stop me!
Graham Newell
E-Commerce Executive
I have worked at Avis for just over a year now as E-Commerce Executive. Avis has been fantastic for me; It has unlocked a passion I didn’t know I had and taught me more about the web than I thought possible! It has also got me to create my own website and blog.
I am a petrol head who loves to travel. From living in the U.S. driving raised pick up trucks in Texas (ridiculous) to flying around on mopeds in South East Asia. Whatever vehicle I’m given, I’ll find a way to enjoy it (except the Ford Fiesta - personal vendetta).
When I am not working, I am planning my next trip away, thinking of a get rich quick idea or just relaxing with friends family or my lovely girlfriend.
What car would you be and why?!
I am torn between a Ford Mustang Cobra Jet 1969 (more because it’s my dream car) and a KITT from Knightrider (because I tend to enjoy the sound of my own voice)!
