A BIRCHWOOD based company has announced a leading industry figure to head up its new business.

Procurement outsourcing specialist Inprova Group has appointed Michael Dent as managing director of its new Inprova Energy business.

The 41-year-old has extensive senior leadership experience of the European energy markets, and is a former board director of Utilitywise plc. He also held senior roles at Total Gas & Power Ltd and RWE npower.

Inprova Energy is the newly branded energy division of Inprova Group.

Paul Kennedy, Inprova Group chief executive said: "With Michael's vast industry experience, visionary approach and track record of achievement, Inprova Energy is setting the right course for further growth, including possible future acquisitions.

"Under Michael's leadership, our vision is to be recognised as the most trusted energy advisor in the UK, keeping customer service excellence rooted at the heart of everything we do.”

Michael Dent said: "Although Inprova Energy is a new brand, it has a 40-year history with 3,000 energy contracts worth £1bn placed last year alone. Our highly skilled, customer-focused team manage the energy needs of some of the UK's biggest brands. I’m delighted to be working with such a passionate and dedicated team towards achieving our ‘most trusted energy advisor’ vision."

Dent is a law graduate and holds an MBA from the University of Manchester.