Plastics firm Coral Products confirms full time appointment of stand-in CEO Hillman

Wythenshawe-based plastics manufacturer, Coral Products, has appointed Ian Hillman as its new group CEO.

He was previously group COO, but had  been leading the AIM-listed business since October 25, 2024, following the resignation of previous CEO, Lance Burn.

Under Hillman’s leadership the company has delivered significant changes to re-size and restructure the business, positioning it for long term success and sustainable growth.

The board said it is confident that his appointment as CEO reflects both the results achieved to date and the strategic vision required to lead the business forward.

The board also announced that it will appoint Robert (Rob) David as group operations director, subject to the completion of regulatory due diligence procedures.

Rob brings extensive experience from previous senior management and managing director roles within the UK plastics processing industry.

For the past six months, Rob has served as a key member of Ian Hillman’s senior operational management team.

During this time, he has made a substantial contribution to the company’s operational and commercial improvements and is regarded as an asset to the organisation.

Coral chairman, Joe Grimmond, said: “Ian Hillman has been leading the business since 25 October 2024.

“The improvements and progress made over the last six months, including the successful integration and early contribution of the recent Arrow Film & Foil asset and business acquisition announced on 1 April 2025, fully support his appointment to group chief executive officer.

“I am also delighted with the contribution Rob David has made to the business and recognise his experience and leadership as key assets for the future.”

Lance Burn stood down last October, by mutual agreement, to save costs at the firm, which the previous week had warned that it expected to make a loss this year.

Coral said at the time: “In the light of the continued challenging trading environment, Coral has entered into a cost rationalisation exercise and reflecting this, by mutual agreement, Lance Burn, Group CEO, has resigned and will leave the group on 31st October 2024.”