Creative communications agency Cogent Elliott has appointed prominent Conservative politician Francis Maude to its board.
The Meriden-based agency has recruited Mr Maude, who served on the Commons’ front bench for more than two decades, as its non-executive chairman while Bruce Hutton joins as group chief executive.
Mr Maude's CV includes stints as Minister for the Cabinet Officer and Paymaster-General as well as MP for North Warwickshire and later Horsham.
He has also held several senior roles within the communications industry including chairman of Mission Marketing Group.
He said: "I've known Cogent for 30 years as MP for North Warwickshire - I lived half a mile from its Meriden base.
"Cogent is such a great agency that consistently produces work of the highest quality. It's a pleasure to be involved in the next stage of its journey."
The appointment of Mr Hutton as chief executive marks a return to agency work, having spent the previous three years setting up his own brewing company and several other retail food-based ventures.
He has held numerous senior management agency positions within the industry including chief executive of the Bray Leino Group.
He replaces Mike Phillipson who left the post after more than four years to embark on new ventures.
Mr Hutton said: "These are exciting times to be joining Cogent and I’m looking forward to playing my part in helping our current clients grow their businesses and working with new brands.
"Cogent has built an enviable reputation within the market and I’ll be looking to really drive the business in all areas, expand our offer and services and take it to the next level of growth."
Chairman Tim Pile added: "I am absolutely thrilled that Bruce and Francis are joining Cogent at this moment in our journey.
"These are both very significant hires for us and, between them, will bring a vast array of skills, exceptional management and client focus, plus immense energy and outstanding leadership to our business."
