Willie Byrne has been appointed technology director by holding company the GDC Group to steer the anticipated growth in the Robinson Willey (RW) brand.
Formerly with Valor, Mr Byrne has more than 25 years experience in the fires industry. He will be in charge of new product development of the RW portfolio of gas and electric fires, and will also work with the new sales and marketing function to target the social housing, specification and retail sectors.

As well as being a registered engineer at the Engineering Council and a member of the Institute of Quality Assurers, he is a member of the Society of British Gas Industries and the Heating and Hot Water Industry Council.

Robinson Willey managing director Colin Pemberton said: 'This latest appointment is not only testimony to our ambitious growth plans, it is illustrative of the confidence that is held in the RW brand which has been around for over 50 years. Willie brings a wealth of high level experience and personal enthusiasm to his role and will be an invaluable asset to the company's future growth.'

GDC is the holding company for brands in the heating industry including Creda Heating, Dimplex, Faber, Glen, Unidare and Nobo. All brands within the GDC group operate autonomously.