William Sinclair Horticulture, one of the UK's leading producers of growing media, fertiliser and garden sundries, has appointed Simon McArdle as marketing director.

Simon, 40, was formerly group category director at Hozelock, having previously filled a number of senior roles during a 15-year period at the watering and aquatics brand leader, including group marketing director and group innovation and strategy director.

A BSc graduate from Aberystwyth University, he also spent two years in America, leading Hozelock's US subsidiary, and oversaw the launch of a number of award-winning products, including this year’s GiMA sword of Excellence winner, the Flexispray.

Mr McArdle will report directly to William Sinclair’s chief executive Peter Rush.

Peter Rush said: “Simon is unquestionably one of the horticulture industry's top marketing and innovation executives and I am delighted he is joining William Sinclair. We worked closely together at Hozelock where i had first hand experience of his innovative approach to marketing products within the horticulture sector.

“William Sinclair is building the best team possible to capitalise on the re-launch of its product ranges and integration of its new, state-of-the-art factory and distribution facilities at Ellesmere Port.”

Simon McArdle commented: “It is a very exciting time to be joining Sinclair and I look forward to contributing to the company’s success and helping it meet its ambitious growth targets.

“With William Sinclair’s heritage, the opportunities here, and also within the horticulture sector, are immense.”