A council-owned company which supplies products and services to public-sector bodies has hired a new executive chairman.

Commercial Services has appointed Guy Parsons to lead the organisation, which works in recruitment, educations supplies, energy and direct services.

The former Maidstone Grammar School pupil has served as non-executive chairman since September, overseeing the firm’s corporate restructure into two private limited companies.

Since then the firm has also moved more than 700 staff to new premises in Kings Hill and built a 100,000sqft warehouse in Aylesford.

It is one of the UK’s largest suppliers of products to publically-funded organisations, including education establishments, local government, emergency services and the voluntary and community sector.

Mr Parsons has experience on the boards of several blue-chip companies, having previously run Travelodge Hotels and TGI Fridays.

He also serves as a non-executive director at London and Partners, YBS Group and is chair of Nescot.

Born and raised in Kent, he is enjoying his return to the county. He said: “I was surprised by how much has changed, especially in Maidstone, but there is an economic vibrancy here that bodes well for the future.

“In the current climate of public sector austerity, it’s important to remember that our organisation is owned by Kent County Council and our profits go directly back to the council to help them underpin the services it provides for everyone living in Kent. This is at the heart of what we do.

“Commercial Services is a market-leading business that operates in areas that are benefiting from the economic recovery. I intend to help the organisation develop and grow.”