Business news in brief: Johnston Press | CSL | Global Energy Group

NEWSPAPER publisher Johnston Press has promoted Richard Bogie to the newly-created position of group advertising sales director.

Bogie – who was previously advertising sales director for Johnston Press’ Scotland division, which publishes newspapers including The Scotsman, Scotland on Sunday and the Falkirk Herald – has held senior posts at Express Newspapers, the Independent and IPC Media.

He will report to Neil Jones, group commercial director, and will manage Johnston Press’s relationship with Mediaforce, the firm’s national sales house.

130 jobs created as sofa chain expands

SOFA retailer CSL is to create 130 jobs by opening its first store in Scotland and setting up a distribution depot alongside the M8 motorway.

The Manchester-based firm will open a branch at the Abbotsinch retail park in Paisley before Easter as part of a £4 million investment plan.

CSL yesterday unveiled a jump in pre-tax profits to £2.5m for 2012 from just £200,000 in 2011 thanks to an expansion drive that saw sales soar by 43 per cent to £110m.

Like-for-like sales, which strip out stores opening, rose by 16 per cent over the same period.

Global buys Ifab in offshore expansion

ENGINEERING firm Global Energy Group has bought rival Invergordon Fabrication (Ifab) from Ports Services Group for an undisclosed sum.

Inverness-based Global will re-brand Ifab’s Invergordon fabrication yard under its existing Isleburn brand.

Global chairman Roy MacGregor said: “We have been in talks with Port Services for some time and are delighted we have reached this agreement. The additional facilities along the Cromarty Firth will further strengthen our capability and compliments our existing plans with Nigg energy park.”

Chandler takes SBS head of finance role

Graeme Chandler has been appointed head of finance with the Scottish Building Society.

Chandler, a financial sector veteran, was previously senior finance manager for the Ireland business support unit with Lloyds Banking Group. He also worked for Scottish & Newcastle in various accountancy and management roles. He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accounts.

Chief executive Gerry Kay said: “The of role here at the Scottish offers a great opportunity to really get involved and make a difference.”