Supply chain management consultancy Purcon has appointed NEIL LOVATT-SMITH as finance director and joins the Purcon Board at its UK headquarters in White Lion Road, Amersham.

Neil, who is relocating to the area from the Midlands, previously worked for blue chip companies including KPMG and Birmingham Midshires Building Society.

Purcon's MD Tony English said: "We are committed to growing our niche market in Europe and North America. Neil will help us do that."

Oxford Instruments Analytical has appointed a new operations director, STEVE WEBB.

Steve will be based at the company's High Wycombe headquarters on the Cressex Business Park and will manage company resources to ensure that its high-calibre systems and components are manufactured to top quality levels and reach customers on time.

He joins Oxford Instruments Analytical after 19 years with Marconi.

Chartridge Conference Centre has added two new members to its growing team.

PAUL HOPKIN joins the centre as operations manager after eight years with Forte Hotels and STUART HINE has been appointed as head chef. He comes to Chartridge after a lengthy spell with Marriott Hotels.

Mandeville Recuitment Group is increasing its presence in the Thames Valley with the appointment of five new permanent consultants at its offices in Taplow and Cippenham, include resourcer NIKKI BAKER and managing consultant CHARLES WILLOCK within Active Services IT Division.