The popular toy manufacturer and distributor, Sambro International Limited has appointed Paul Blackaby as its new chief executive officer, as he looks to “lead the team through its next stage of development.”

Blackaby joined the Sambro business in February 2020 as chief financial officer, bringing with him many years of experience in both the manufacturing and consumer goods sectors at a senior level.

“I am completely delighted to be given the opportunity to lead this fantastic business and terrific team through its next stage of development,” said Blackaby. “There has been some great work undertaken in recent years which we will harness and build from – we are all excited about Sambro’s future.”

The award-winning, Manchester based business recently announced that it was assessing growth opportunities after securing a £13 million funding package with its banking partner.

Sambro achieved strong sales in 2020 despite the challenges of the pandemic and employs more than 90 people in its offices in Bury, Amsterdam and Hong Kong.