Former Carillion divisional finance director Jim Kendall has joined Simons Group as finance director.
The 35-year-old chartered accountant and qualified engineer joined the Lincoln-based construction, development and consultancy group last month. Simons has a turnover of £250m.

Kendall said he had been attracted to Simons' blue- chip client list and thought it would be better able to handle a downturn, because it was not listed and could therefore take a longer-term view.

He said: "We also have the financial stability and flexibility which will enable us to weather the storm better than many public companies." Simons' chairman Paul Hodgkinson said Kendall's appointment would add to the firm's expertise, especially in partnering.

He said: "He has particular skills and experience which will enable us to develop still further our passion for partnering."