Bowtell will up head up the Sector Skills Council (SSC) in the role of general manager, as part of a restructure that has created an equivalent position appointed to oversee the National Skills Academy for materials, production and supply.

Under Bowtell's charge, the SSC will focus on a raft of industry issues that span the development of standards and qualifications, as well as researching industry needs.

The SSC will also converse with employers, the government and other organisations, while the new appointments will allow Watts to engage with the government at policy level.

With the launch of the academy for materials, production and supply in June this year, Proskills is aiming to have a clear division between its delivery arm and core SSC activities.

Watts said that, following the development of a portfolio of industry-relevant qualifications and the establishment of a Training Provider Network, now is the time to for Proskills to switch focus.

He added: "Strengthening the team in this way by putting new general managers in place to lead the Sector Skills Council and The Academy, gives Proskills the separation and focus it requires to drive the objectives of each arm of the business, to meet the demands of the employers we represent."

Bowtell joins Proskills following more than 20 years in the coatings industry and more recently with AkzoNobel.

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