Mr Davies served with HM Forces Royal Artillery from 1979 until 2000. Since leaving the armed forces, he has held a string of high-profile sales management roles at companies including BDC Commercial, Barrett Steel, Pland Stainless, and Wisharts of Scotland. At Wisharts, he set up a new commercial department which grew from a zero base to over £3.4 million annual turnover.

He said: “I’m excited to start work at SMI, because I can see immediately how the fantastic product range can help such a wide range of companies in the thermal protection industry. Not only can they cut their carbon footprint by saving energy, but the fantastic Bio-Gard used to enrich SMI curtains has Mr

Mr Davies added: “I’m looking forward to rolling up my sleeves and getting started. My military service has taught me self-discipline, and the right morals in life, and I pride myself on being open and honest with customers.”

SMI director Jill Seymour said: “As soon as we met Chris, and saw his CV, we knew that he had the right background, experience and personality to fit perfectly into our team. We are delighted to have secured his services.”