An Exeter University graduate, Mr Craner trained and qualified with Arthur Andersen and has also worked for Curver UK, Catalent, Baldor Electric Company and Ultra Electronics where he had a record of adding value by delivering revenue increases via efficiencies and cost savings. Most recently, he has worked as a corporate finance consultant.
He will replace Harry Langley as financial director, who has become the business’s group company secretary.
Brian Lodge, managing director of swcomms, said: “As the former managing director and finance director, Harry has helped swcomms grow to the business it is today and his unrivalled experienced meant he was the ideal choice for group company secretary. He will build on our compliance with statutory regulations, will ensure the board’s strategy is implemented and continue to guide us as our business evolves to meet the ever-changing IT and communications needs of our customers.
Mr Lodge added: “James will build on Harry’s exemplary work as we strive to grow our business into the managed services arena in which we will bring business-grade connectivity and cutting-edge cloud integrated solutions to our customers on a monthly, subscription basis.
“His experience outside our industry and his strong financial leadership will be key to our continued success in managing the different and ever more complex income streams that our monthly revenues generate.”
Mr Craner said: “swcomms is the leading provider of voice, data and connectivity solutions in the South West. I am excited to be joining a strong team and business. I look forward to helping them build on the fantastic success that they have already achieved.”