Mr Paterson takes up the position as a non-executive director and brings a wealth of experience to the role.

For the past five-and-a-half years, Mr Paterson has been a director with Quest Corporate in Edinburgh. GTS chief executive Chris Thewlis has brought Mr Paterson on board as part of the company’s strategic growth plan as it focuses on its converged security model.

GTS is the only fully accredited social enterprise operating in the private security industry.

Chris Thewlis said: “We are delighted to get someone of Stephen’s experience and calibre in the industry. There is no question he is an expert in his field and is widely respected. His track record speaks for itself.

“He will play a key role as we continue to grow the company. Having Stephen on the board puts us in a strong position to implement our business plan going forward and I’m looking forward to us working together.”

Mr Paterson, who was named financial director of the year in 2000, said: “I have watched GTS grow significantly over the last 18 months and met Chris during that period. I had given him various ad-hoc financial advice as he grew the business and it has grown to the extent that now it has to strengthen its board, particularly on the financial side. I am very pleased to be working with GTS Solutions and I look forward to the journey ahead as we build on the success to date.”