Business people on the move

Chris McKendrick has been recruited by WSA Healthcare (WSAH) as its first CEO.

Established in 2018 by David Watson and Shaz Ahmed, the Scottish-based progressive healthcare group offers new therapeutic approaches, including the use of stem cells to transform and improve longevity and quality of life.

WSAH operates three early-stage companies in the healthcare and life sciences sector, Foys Medical, research company ExonGenics and PPE Direct Scotland.

Chris’ appointment marks a major step forward in WSAH’s plans, providing the corporate expertise it needs to realise its business strategy. The Covid period has accelerated its business plans as demand for its ethically sourced PPE rose substantially, enabling the company to advance plans to open the UK’s first dedicated stem cell clinic on the outskirts of Glasgow in 2022.

Chris has substantive experience of implementing growth strategies and leading businesses. Sought-after by private equity companies and business founders, his track record for success includes the restructuring companies such as Evans Cycles, Cath Kidson and Arran Aromatics and PG Paper.

Water retailer Business Stream has appointed experienced aviation and distribution sector professional, Forsyth Black, to its board as a non-executive director.

Forsyth is currently a non-executive director at Aberdeen Harbour Board, having previously been CEO of John Menzies Plc where he was responsible for overseeing its move away from its traditional markets to become a pure-play aviation services business.

Forsyth said: “I was drawn to Business Stream’s vision, it’s a progressive organisation with a strong sense of purpose and an ambitious business strategy. I’m looking forward to working with the board and senior leadership team and playing my part to achieve even more together”.

Graeme Kelly, 62, from Fife, who is currently a director at Walker Healthcare, will move across to the newly created role of managing director at Cramond Residence.

The home was purpose-built in 2018 for the clinical care for older people, with the latest technology and awareness of infection-control factored into the design.