Eastwood joined Lignacite as a fork lift truck driver after leaving the army where he was a Staff Sargeant and Gunnery Instructor in 1996.

He was quickly promoted to Yard Foreman and then Works Manager at one of Lignacite’s manufacturing plants after only six months.

He then progressed to become Operations Director in 2004 before this latest promotion.

Eastwood will be overseeing the company’s team of 65 people across its two factories in Brandon, Suffolk and Nazeing in Essex.

He is positive he can build on the recent construction upturn and increase turnover by 20% in the next year while maintaining existing cost levels.

Eastwood said: “I am delighted with this promotion and have a great team here at Lignacite.

“My army background comes in handy when it comes to motivating the team, and despite my newfound responsibilities I will still be very hands on and practical when required.”

Lignacite’s owner and Executive Chairman Giles de Lotbiniere said: “When he wrote to me from the army, little did I know that he would be such an asset to the company.

“I am confident Allan will help to strengthen our position in the market and maximise the opportunities associated with the solid growth we are currently experiencing, and we very much look forward to benefiting further from his collaborative and innovative approach.”

Outside of work Eastwood’s regular hobby is skydiving.