THB Group has appointed Zurich's former UK strategic planning director as its new director of group operations.
John Preston has held various strategic consulting and corporate roles, most recently as an interim manager at a leading international bank.
Preston, who assumed his new role on 8 January, is responsible for information technology, marketing and communications, and change management.
Group chief executive, Vic Thompson, said: “I am delighted to welcome John Preston aboard at this stage in the group's development. His planning experience and track record of driving operational performance will be a great asset to the Board as we pursue our strategy of growing profitable businesses in specialist markets.”
Preston added: “I am impressed by THB's growth plans and its commitment to delivering excellent results. I am particularly interested in the group's change management programme and I am looking forward to using my experience in this area to contribute to the process of reform, with the aim of further improving operational efficiency for the benefit of customers, suppliers and, ultimately, shareholders.”
In December THB announced it could call on at least £10m to fund further expansion, after the disposal of its provincial retail operation and new funding from its bankers. The group also delivered a strong half-year performance, with its interim report showing a 26% increase in profit before tax.
