Josh Nickell leaves ARA to lead rental business

From left to right: Steffen Lignugaris, Jeff Lignugaris and Josh Nickell. (Photo: Northside Tool Rental)

US-based equipment rental company Northside Tool Rental has appointed Josh Nickell as its new CEO.

Nickell joins the family-owned company from the Amercian Rental Association (ARA), where he was vice president of the equipment segment, technology, and workforce development.

He has also previously worked for his family business Nickell Rental and Sunbelt Rentals when it acquired the business.

The company, which operates four locations in Atlanta, described Nickell as an “industry veteran” and said he is “excited to build on the success” of Jeff Lignugaris, president and co-owner, Steffen Lignugaris, vice president and their grandfather Roy Milling, who was also the 9th president of the ARA.

Nickell said, “Northside Tool Rental has more than a 71-year legacy created from the idea of ‘equipment rental built by relationships. I aim to use this foundation coupled with the latest technology and best practices from inside and outside the industry to serve the DIY market and professional contractors left behind by industry consolidation.

“We have an enthusiastic and experienced team with exciting plans to continue to expand Northside Tool Rental. I’m honored to take on the role and use my expertise to help another family business in Atlanta.”

Jeff Lignugaris, president and co-owner of Northside Tool Rental, added, “I have known Josh for two decades and have always been impressed with his leadership style and his approach to solving business problems. 

“Josh and I believe strongly that there is a large opportunity for independent, middle-market rental companies to thrive. The way he approaches the rental business and his understanding of the industry will help us achieve new goals and growth. I’m confident Josh’s fresh perspective of our family’s business will be beneficial for staff and customers alike.”