PPG Refinish UK has appointed John McGowan to the role of market director, UK and Ireland.

McGowan was previously market manager for Ireland, and has 30 years experience in the coatings industry. He replaces James Thorburn, who left PPG at the end of August.

McGowan will manage all the sales, marketing and customer service elements of the UK and Irish refinish businesses.

This involves the supply of products and services for the car, commercial vehicle and light industrial coatings markets. The basis for this offer will continue to be PPG’s four paint brands: PPG, Nexa Autocolor, MaxMeyer and Selemix.

“I am delighted with this new role” said McGowan. “It’s ideal for me as I will be able to build new relationships with our partners in the UK whilst maintaining links with distributors and bodyshops in Ireland where I have been market manager for the last six years. I am relishing the challenge and am sure that with the first class team that I have in place we will continue to go from strength to strength.”