He replaces Ian Smith, who was previously combining the role with work for Goodhead Group owner John Madejski's property business Sackville Properties, due the continued growth at the business.

BGP chief executive David Holland said: "Our group is now of a scale that necessitates a full-time chief financial officer.

"However I want to thank Ian for his invaluable contribution and unfailing good humour over the last 18 months. I think Mike can make a great contribution to our future progress."

Edwards, who took up the role on 6 January, was finance director at Heron from 1995 to 2006 and he also held a similar role at on-demand specialists Anthony Rowe.