Crown Paints has announced the appointment of Brian Davidson as group ceo. Mr Davidson takes up the role as of today and replaces Graham Hallworth, who steps down from his position as executive chairman. However, Mr Hallworth will remain involved as a strategic advisor.
Mr Davidson's appointment follows Crown's first year of trading under new management after private equity firm Endless purchased the company from Akzo Nobel.
Commenting on developments since then, Mr Hallworth said: "Following the acquisition by Endless in September 2008, the company faced some significant challenges. I am pleased to say they are either dealt with or are well on the road to a satisfactory outcome. It has been a tough but enjoyable 14 months in which the team have worked extremely hard, the result of which is a much stronger business."

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Davidson, who joins from bus and coach manufacturer Alexander Dennis, said: "I am delighted to be joining Crown Paints at such an exciting time in the development of the business. Crown Paints has fantastic brands with great products and I am looking forward to working with the team to enhance our customer experience, building on the good work already completed by Graham Hallworth."