United Rentals this week named Ned Graham vice president of business development effective immediately. Graham, a 29-year veteran of the rental industry, will lead the development of strategies and process improvements related to business expansion.

Graham most recently served as senior vice president of operations for RSC Equipment Rental, where he directed operations in 30 states, following six years as regional vice president and two years as district manager. Before that, Graham acquired and then served as president of Approved Equipment Co., a multi-location rental, sales and service business based in Maryland. He began his business career with Manufacturers Hanover Trust Co. in corporate lending.

“Ned’s nearly three decades of experience with equipment rental operations, including 10 years in the public sector, speaks for itself,” said United Rentals CEO Michael Kneeland. “He has an exceptional talent for realizing compelling opportunities on a national scale, across all business units and customer segments. Ned’s expertise makes him a strong addition to our senior team, and we are delighted to have him on board as we continue to pursue our strategic objectives.”

Graham holds a bachelor’s degree from Wilkes University and attended executive programs at several leading institutions including Harvard Business School, Fordham University and the Swedish Institute of Management/International operations in Stockholm, Sweden.

Based in Greenwich, Conn., United Rentals is No. 1 on the RER 100.