Appointments: Stephen Harris takes over at Bodycote, New forensic head for Baker Tilly and more

STEPHEN Harris is taking over at the helm of Bodycote on Monday.

Mr Harris, who joined the board of the Macclesfield-based group a few months ago, will assume the role of chief executive from John Hubbard who will continue to advise him in the coming months.

American Mr Hubbard will be stepping down from the board following the conclusion of the annual general meeting in April.

Alan Thomson, chairman of Bodycote, said: “I am very pleased that the handover period has progressed smoothly and that Stephen is now assuming the role of chief executive.

“He has already taken personal charge of the group’s previously announced restructuring plans.

“I am confident that he will accelerate the improvement in the group’s performance and deliver significant value for shareholders.”

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ACCOUNTANCY firm Baker Tilly has appointed Tony Chapman as partner to lead the forensic accounting team in the north.

Mr Chapman joins from law firm Pinsent Masons where he was responsible for building and leading a team of forensic accountants advising on the financial and commercial aspects of disputes handled by the firm.

Baker Tilly said the move is part of a significant push into the forensic, investigatory and dispute advisory areas.

Mark Blakemore, Baker Tilly’s managing partner in Manchester, said: “Tony has been involved in the delivery and procurement of forensic services at a senior level for the past eight years and brings a broad range of skills and experiences to the firm. 

“He has built and led teams dealing with the financial and commercial aspects of resolving major corporate disputes and advising on the financial aspects of major fraud, FSA and other regulatory investigations. We look forward to Tony leading our growth strategy in this area.”

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CATALYST Healthcare, the private finance initiative PFI consortium managing the new hospitals development in Manchester, has appointed Marion Sheridan as deputy general manager.

Ms Sheridan has spent the last 12 months as assistant general manager where she handled the transfer of management services for Central Manchester and Manchester Children’s University Hospitals NHS Trust to the supplier partner.

In her new role as deputy, she will now audit facilities and estates management services to ensure they comply with national legislation and the PFI project agreement.