On the move: the latest East Midlands hires

Anstey-based food safety business, Navitas Group has appointed Dan Hawkie to the newly-created position of commercial director as it looks to expand after securing £745,000 of equity funding.

Hawkie brings more than 15 years’ hospitality industry experience to the business, most recently as head of business development with operations management company, Trail.

Hawkie said: “I’m excited to be joining Navitas at such a pivotal stage in its development and helping to maximise the fantastic market opportunity we have. It’s a business with an unrivalled set of products and services to support hospitality operators – from environmental health consultancy and training to compliance and digital food safety management – combined with a great reputation and pedigree.”

Lincoln Marks

Heavy machinery moving specialists Joseph Merritt Group has announced the appointment of Lincoln Marks as health and safety manager.

Marks joins Merritts having previously worked for Cold Harbour Marine. Prior to this, he worked for the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), the UK’s regulator, as a HM Inspector of Health & Safety, where he inspected sites and investigated accidents in both factories and construction sites.

He said: “I am delighted to have joined a well-respected family run business. The company already has a passion for health and safety and is going through an exciting period of growth. Using my past experience of working for HSE I am looking forward to ensuring that Merritts continue to uphold its impeccable track record.”