Manchester-based Revelation Consultants will undertake work throughout the UK and Europe, and will also offer marketing advice, business planning and assistance with acquisitions.

Chapman said: "The concept is to break out of the usual consulting mode and offer strategic analysis coupled with hands-on support."

With more than 20 years of experience in the industry, Chapman has taken a business to the stock market and worked with private equity houses Candover, 3i and Lazards.

"There is a role for a consultant with that sort of experience to deal with strategic and management issues," Chapman said.

Chapman was formerly the MD at independent paper manufacturer Curtis Fine Papers, which went into administration in July this year.