European Food Brokers has recruited Unwins buying director Richard Vaughan-Hawkins to the newly-created role of purchasing director to strengthen the central office executive as business expands.

MD Raj Chatha said: “We are in our third year of trading as progressive licensed distributors and in the last two years we have doubled our turnover.

“With the opening of a third depot in Gateshead, it is obviously essential that we have the calibre of management to drive the company forward. Vaughan-Hawkins’ joining is key to this. Product availability is a prime requirement and he and his team will ensure we meet this challenge.”

Vaughan-Hawkins will report directly to Chatha and will be responsible for product sourcing, promotions and marketing for the group. John Rushton, imported wine buyer, John Ferguson-Cooper, buyer for branded wines and alcopops, and impulse buyer Rod Aveyard all report to Vaughan-Hawkins.