GILES Wilson has been appointed chief executive of John Menzies after holding the post on an interim basis for three months.

The Edinburgh-based logistics group said the chartered accountant had been confirmed in post after it completed a full search process.

A former chief financial officer of John Menzies, Mr Wilson was appointed interim chief executive in March after the company said his predecessor Forsyth Black had left with immediate effect.

Mr Black’s departure followed a momentous year for John Menzies, which sold its newspaper distribution arm after deciding to focus on the aviation services business.

John Menzies highlighted “soft cargo volumes” and continuing labour challenges in the North American market on the day it announced it had parted company with Mr Black.

The company said yesterday that Mr Wilson would bring great financial acumen and a deep knowledge of the aviation services market to his work as chief executive.

“Giles provides excellent continuity whilst bringing great energy and enthusiasm to the role,” said the company’s chairman Dermot Smurfit.

“He has strong relationships with our shareholding base, a sound understanding of our business and is already tackling the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

Mr Wilson said he wants the management team he leads to drive further efficiencies from the business, pursue sustainable organic growth and increase shareholder value.

Details of his remuneration were not disclosed by John Menzies.

Shares in the company closed up 13p at 465.5p. Mr Wilson joined Menzies in 2011 after working for a property group.