Boutinot has appointed David Sefton as managing director as part of a wider shake-up of its senior management team.

Sefton (pictured), who took up the role on September 1, succeeds Dennis Whiteley. He has worked with Boutinot for more than 12 years as general counsel and has spent the past five years on the company’s board.

Whiteley will remain involved during the handover. He said Sefton “understands how Boutinot works” and has his “absolute faith and confidence” as the business moves into its next phase.

There are also two significant changes elsewhere in the UK leadership team. Alex Gittins becomes head of product, taking over responsibility for the Product Division from Nick Butler, while Tom Whiteley moves from his role as commercial director at Henners to become head of marketing.

Long-serving marketing director Deborah Brooks, who has been with Boutinot for 37 years, will remain on the board and continue to work with the company on special projects and consultancy. Michael Moriarty’s role as senior director is unchanged.

Dennis Whiteley said the changes were intended to give Boutinot “a long-term footing for growth”, while also developing staff and planning for succession.