YORK-BASED house builder Shepherd Homes has appointed a new commercial director.

Neil Wilkinson has taken the reins of the company's cost management team at Shepherd Homes' head office in York. He will lead the surveying and buying department responsible for new homes and sites throughout the region.

A married father-of-two, Neil has extensive experience of the property industry, and he is looking forward to the challenge of expanding the business.

He said: "We have several new schemes in the pipeline and I am looking forward to building on the success that has earned Shepherd Homes the respect as a leading house builder among buyers and the industry alike."

John Carter, managing director for Shepherd Homes, said: "Neil came to Shepherd with a proven track record in senior management roles within the relevant industry, including experience at director level with one of the UK's largest property developers. He has already become a valuable member of the Shepherd management team and his knowledge will be invaluable in helping the business to grow and prosper."

Updated: 12:16 Wednesday, December 03, 2003