Concrete contractor John Doyle Group has appointed a managing director to run its London-based subsidiary Bell.

The company has hired Chris Brooks, previously group services director at fit-out firm Curzon, which went into liquidation three months ago.

Brooks replaced Bob Williams. According to a spokesperson for John Doyle, Williams "left to pursue other interests".

Bell was formed in 1880, and is involved in social housing, upmarket refurbishment and some local authority work.

Last month Stef Stefanou, the chairman of John Doyle Group, sold almost 80% of the company to its management and staff. He retains a 22% majority stake in the company and will remain chairman.

Forty-eight per cent of shares were split between five members of senior management, including chief executive Rob Johnson, and the rest was sold to other members of staff.