Philip Bowman takes chair at Miller Group

PHILIP Bowman, the former chief executive of ScottishPower, yesterday took over the role of chairman of house builder Miller Group, replacing Sir Brian Stewart.

Bowman, 59, is currently the chief executive of technology company, Smiths Group, and is the senior independent director of Burberry Group.

Before joining Scottish Power, Bowman was chief executive of Allied Domecq between 1999 and 2005. Other past board appointments include British Sky Broadcasting Group, Scottish & Newcastle Group and Bass. Bowman has also been chairman of Liberty and Coral Eurobet.

Bowman said: “I am delighted to join the Miller Group at a very exciting point in its development. Its financial strength has been transformed by the recent capital injection by GSO Capital Partners and the Blackstone Group. The Miller Group has a very successful track record of producing many fine buildings and developments and the outlook for the future is extremely positive.”

Keith Miller, group chief executive, said: “Philip has had a wealth of experience at the helm of major international public companies. He has amply demonstrated his ability to take a leading role in building businesses. We are looking forward to welcoming Philip to the Miller team at a time when we will be focusing on the further development and expansion of the business.” Miller also thanked Stewart for his contribution to the Edinburgh-based Miller Group over the past three years.

He said: “Sir Brian’s commitment to our business, especially over the past 15 months during the refinancing, has been of great value to the board. His extensive business insight and calm approach are admirable and, on behalf of the Miller team, I would like to thank him for his contribution and consistent support.”