Stewart Milne Timber Systems has announced a new appointment to support client demand and growth in the South East of England. The move comes as the company sees orders increase by more than 70% across the UK in the last year.

David Woods joins as business development manager, having joined the business from Taylor Lane, where he had a similar role. Mr Woods brings 17 years of experience in sales including eight in the timber frame sector. In his previous role he spent six years as design co-ordinator giving him a valuable insight into timber systems from the initial idea through to construction.

Eddie Stanton, sales director at Stewart Milne Timber Systems, said: “The market for timber systems is strong, with our increase in orders a trend we expect to continue into 2015.

“To maintain our momentum we need to increase our team to meet the requirements of our clients, David will undertake this role.

“David’s appointment is an important one and he will focus on a geographic area which is already starting to embrace the use of timber build systems. It’s an exciting time for the sector and a great opportunity for David to make his mark.”

The appointment comes as the construction industry continues to record impressive growth. The latest figures from the monthly Markit/CIPS UK Construction PMI index showed a strong increase in orders during September, registering at 64.2 – above the 50.0 no-change threshold for the 17th month in a row.

This has resulted in a rise in the demand for timber, with Stewart Milne Timber Systems reporting earlier this month that it had seen orders rise 70% year-on-year. In the coming year, the company expects to continue improving efficiency to meet the growing demand for timber frame and offsite construction across the UK.

Mr Woods said: “At a time when timber is growing in popularity it’s fantastic to be given the opportunity to drive business in the South East.

“As the industry’s leading expert for timber frame, I’m pleased to be joining Stewart Milne Timber Systems, to take up a position which will provide a host of new opportunities."