CONSERVATORY company Amdega, which employs 220 people in Faverdale, Darlington, has appointed Mike Willink as chief operating officer.

It follows the takeover by private equity group Endless, in August.

Mr Willink has had senior roles with Rolls Royce Marine, Moores Furniture and Howdens Joinery.

He said: “It is tremendously exciting to be joining Amdega at such a key time in its history.

“There are challenges, however, but with the fresh investment support behind us I’m excited by the numerous improvement opportunities for us to pursue.

“Amdega has a very proud heritage and our aim is to be once again renowned for the highest operational excellence and quality.”

Steve Sutherland, chairman of Amdega, who joined the business at the time of Endless’ investment, said: “Mike’s pedigree and leadership abilities are a perfect fit to what is needed at Amdega and securing someone of his calibre is testament to our ambition for the business.”

Amdega, established in 1874, has an annual turnover of nearly £20m.