Appointments: Signature Living; First Internet; MC2
SIGNATURE Living, the company behind plans to turn the former head office of the White Star Line into a hotel, has appointed David Hughes as managing director.
The White Star Line operated the Titanic and is said to have broken news of its sinking from its Albion House building on The Strand.
Mr Hughes has over 16 years’ experience in the leisure and hospitality industry and has previously worked with Whitbread, IHG and Hilton.
Founded in 2008 by Lawrence and Katie Kenwright, Signature Living now has 300 beds at locations in Matthew Street, Stanley Street, Bold Street and Victoria Street.
Hughes said: “Lawrence and Katie’s vision, creativity and understanding of their market have made Signature Living one of the most successful serviced apartments and hotel groups in Liverpool, and it’s my role to help them develop the brand and take the business forward, with a particular focus on 30 James Street.
“First class staff, first class service and a desire to consistently exceed customer expectations are at the core of our shared values, and I am hugely excited to be joining the Signature Living team at the start of what promises to be a very busy and exciting year.”
As part of expansion plans, which include the launch of 30 James Street in April this year, the company hopes to grow this offering to 1,000 beds by the end of 2014.
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Hale-based online marketing agency First Internet has appointed Richard Blamire as managing director.
He previously ran his own agency, Inspired Interactive, and before the was the head of digital for Euro RSCG.
The company said his appointment follows a period of client wins including work with PZ Cussons on brands such as Imperial Leather, Original Source, and Carex.
The agency has also appointed Wayne Berry as digital marketing consultant, Matthew Higgins and David Burton as junior account managers and John Burgess as junior developer.
Blamire said: “I’m extremely excited about joining First Internet – the move represents a new challenge in helping to drive a well established, respected new media agency forward. Our plans for growth include exploring new market segments, targeting major household names and blue chip businesses. First Internet has the heritage and pedigree to aim high and I’ll be ensuring that the company infrastructure is in place to facilitate this level of growth.”
The business was founded by Stephen Alexander who has become chairman. He said: “We’re thrilled to have Richard on board. His fresh ideas, drive and management skills are the perfect complement to our expanding team. Having experienced a number of client wins and a significant recruitment boost, it’s exciting times ahead for First Internet.”
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MANCHESTER marketing and PR firm MC2 has hired two new recruits at account manager and account executive.
Russell Pearce joins as account manager from Grey London, where he worked with Pantene, The British Heart Foundation and Duracell.
Andy Haywood has become an account executive following a degree in politics from Newcastle University and internships with Mark Hunter MP and Inside Magazines, Cheshire.
Pearce will manage consumer clients including Krispy Kreme, Mondelez International, Benedictine liqueur and the North West Air Ambulance Charity. Meanwhile, Haywood will join the agency’s financial and professional services team, working with clients including Deloitte, Clearwater Corporate Finance, Palatine Private Equity and NorthEdge Capital.
