Steve Newlands, chief executive of Vango distributors AMG Group. Photo: Bob Smith/grough

Stephen Newlands, chief executive of Vango distributors AMG Group. Photo: Bob Smith/grough

The company behind some of the best known outdoor brands, including Vango and Trangia, has a new chief executive.

Stephen Newlands is stepping up to take the role at the AMG Group, which also includes in its brands the F10 Series, Lichfield, Blacks of Greenock, Rossignol, Wayfayrer, Teko and Anatom.

He was previously managing director of the Port Glasgow-based company.

The firm, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2016, said it has had a strong financial year and was implementing a series of internal promotions and new appointments to help it continue its expansion and growth plans.

It said Mr Newlands, who has been at the forefront of managing the business for 16 years, will oversee the company’s strategic direction and ensure the business is set up for success in an increasingly competitive and challenging market. Its recent innovations have included the Vango AirBeam range of tents.

Group sales and marketing director Derek Bowen has been promoted to the role of managing director and will lead the company through its next phase of innovation and growth, AMG Group said. “Derek joined the team in August 2017 with over 25 years’ experience in the outdoor and footwear industries.

“His new role is to oversee all business operations and build revenue through the development and implementation of innovative brand strategies and product development.”

Glenn Andrews will move from his current role as product and development director to the role of non-executive director. In his new role he will help the board develop the company’s future strategies for growth.

After being with the business for almost 28 years, Steve Craig will retire from his role as commercial director at the end of 2018. Shona Quigley, who joined the business at the start of this year as chief financial officer, will take over from Mr Craig on his retirement. She will lead the financial and commercial business efforts, working closely with the new board of directors to help build market share.

Rob Birrell, 15 years with AMG, and head of marketing, has been promoted to the role of marketing director. His responsibilities will be brand strategy, marketing and creative functions, driving awareness and increased revenue.

Mike Wise is promoted to the role of UK sales director. He has risen through the ranks of the business, having spent 12 years in a variety of sales roles before this appointment. The company said in his new role Mr Wise will devise and implement a strategic sales plan, supervise regional sales managers and mentor his growing team of 15.

Also internally promoted, Martin Jones will take on the role of product director after having worked for the company’s product development team for more than 15 years. “Martin will lead the product category teams, delivering innovation through the conception and launch of new products,” AMG Group said.

Stephen Newlands, said: “We are delighted to expand our senior team and welcome our new appointments.

“We are firmly committed to driving the business forward as we strive to expand into new markets, and I am confident that our latest appointments and internal promotions will bolster our already progressive team.”

Mr Bowen added: “AMG Group has a deserved reputation as one of the leading manufacturers and distributors of outdoor equipment. We have a tremendous opportunity to grow the business further and continue to diversify into new sectors, to match the demands and high expectations of our customers.

“AMG Group’s strong brand, family values and innovative outlook are aspects I have respected over many years, and I am excited to be on board and part of the leadership team that will take these to the next level.”

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