U.K. textile products licensee Character World has named Michael Hancox as non-executive chairman. 

Hancox, 43, is currently chief executive officer of AIM-listed Ideal Home Shopping, the U.K. television home shopping retailer, and a non-executive director of Manchester Airport Group.

Hancox has a background in home shopping with chief executive officer, chief operating officer and finance director roles at Otto, Littlewoods Shop Direct Group, ARG Equation, a division of GUS, and Premier Brands U.K., a division of Hillsdown Holdings.

Private equity firm RJD Partners backed the £20 million ($32 million) management buyout of Character World in April 2008, when Danny and Mark Schweiger, who jointly run the company, bought out their father and co-founder of the business, Tommy Schweiger. The company employs 50 staff and achieved sales of £21.5 million ($34.3 million) in 2008.

"We've brought in Mike to support us in our next stage of growth," says Danny Schweiger. ÒHis extensive experience of home shopping, retailing and supply chain management is second to none and he will be a real asset to our team."

"I can see huge growth potential in Character World and am looking forward to working with the directors to ensure this is achieved," says Michael Hancox. "I will use my experience gained over the years to make a positive impact on the business. The company is already enjoying fantastic success working with the world's leading entertainment companies and I'm confident I can help lead it to even greater heights."