<p>Countryside has appointed Daniel McGowan as ceo of the housebuilder’s newly created Midlands division in its Partnerships business.</p> <p>McGowan joins Countryside with more than 25 years’ experience in housebuilding across the South West, Midlands and the North of England. Most recently he was Taylor Wimpey’s Northern divisional chair, where he oversaw the division’s business growth, customer excellence and operations.</p> <p>Countryside said the new boss would focus on “operational excellence” and the delivery of key Midlands schemes, including the £336 million Drakelow Park development in Burton-on-Trent and the £154.5 million Milard Grange scheme in Houghton Regis.</p> <p>The Partnerships Midlands division, previously part of the North region, incorporates east, west and south Midlands. Countryside said the new division reflected the company’s “ambitious growth plans” and would enable its continued geographic expansion in England, including into Bristol and the Chilterns.</p> <p>McGowan said: “Joining Countryside to lead the Partnerships Midlands division is a great privilege. Having worked across these areas for over three decades, I have been impressed by the business’ commitment in the region. I look forward to taking our journey to the next level ensuring we deliver on our promise to create places people love.” </p> <p><span>Iain McPherson</span>, Countryside’s group ceo, said: …