New chairman at Optare

Bus manufacturer Optare has appointed John Fickling as its non-executive chairman.

Mr Fickling was already a non-executive director at the AIM-listed company which is based in Blackburn and Leeds.

He succeeds Roy Stanley who has stepped down from his role as executive chairman to become a non-executive director.

Optare was formed in July following a reverse takeover of Leeds-based Optare Group by Blackburn bus maker the Darwen Group. The business employs 830 people and has a turnover of £90m.

Optare’s chief executive Andrew Brian, said: “Since our acquisition of Optare in July, we have grown into the UK’s second largest bus manufacturer and have benefited hugely from Roy Stanley’s chairmanship, during which he has been instrumental in our acquisition programme, AIM listing and initial integration phase.”

Mr Fickling added: “I am delighted to have been appointed non-executive chairman and look forward to working closely with our customers, business partners and employees to develop a stronger and more competitive business.”