Fibreline, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of upholstery cushion fillings, has made a senior appointment to further strengthen its finance function and leadership team.
Ian Browne has joined the West Yorkshire-based family-owned business as head of finance following a search process led by finance recruitment specialist Headstar.
A chartered management accountant with more than 20 years’ experience, Browne has held senior finance and board-level roles across manufacturing and other fast-moving sectors, helping businesses improve performance and deliver ambitious growth plans.
He joins from events agency First Event where, as finance director, he played a key role in transforming a £6m turnover, owner-managed business into a £25m-plus organisation.
In his new role, Browne manages Fibreline’s finance team, reporting directly to managing director and owner Richard Prudhoe. As part of the senior leadership team, he is responsible for strengthening financial planning, informing strategic decision-making and supporting the business’s continued growth.
Richard Prudhoe said: “Headstar provided exceptional support throughout the process, with Ian standing out as the clear choice from a very strong shortlist.
“He brings the perfect blend of strategic expertise, financial acumen and a collaborative approach, and I’m excited about working closely with him to build on Fibreline’s success and deliver the next phase of our growth.”
Founded in 1982, the £22m turnover business supplies fillings for approximately 5,000 sofas per week, making it a key supply partner within the UK upholstery industry. Based in Keighley, West Yorkshire, it employs approximately 245 people and, in 2025, acquired a neighbouring factory to provide additional capacity and support its future growth.
