The Forum of Private Business (FPB) has appointed Phil Orford to be its chief executive.
The FPB represents 25,000 small and medium-sized UK companies.
Having started his career in sales, Orford, formed his own business in 1983 and has been involved in creating and operating several firms.
'The Forum of Private Business fulfils a vital role in supporting many smaller firms in the UK,' said Orford.
'Small and medium-sized companies have borne the brunt of over-regulation and excessive taxation in recent years. The FPB's job is to be the co-ordinated voice of our members, and to fight to protect their interests.'