New faces

The firm said they would service its rapidly expanding UK client base and further develop its "Knowledge Bank" resource.

The appointments include two new product development managers, Jo Fielding and Owen Ferguson, who will have responsibility for product development of the goodpractice Knowledge Bank.

Meanwhile, Jacquie Balkan has become business development manager, with responsibility for helping build new client business, and Emily Squire is client services manager, appointed to help maintain the company's levels of client care.

Commenting on these appointments, chief executive Peter Casebow said: "We see it as vital that we invest in the people and resources to keep delivering the right management and training solutions for our clients.

"Our four new team members bring with them a wealth of experience and knowledge which will be invaluable to the firm and our clients."

Edinburgh law firm Anderson Strathern has announced the appointment of corporate real estate and finance expert Robert Maclean as a partner.

Mr Maclean's arrival, follows on from the appointment of James Blair as head of corporate finance earlier this year. He joins the firm from the Stannifer group of companies, where he was formerly in-house counsel. Simon Brown, partner and head of corporate at Anderson Strathern, said: "We've been working hard and growing steadily over the past 18 months.

"I'm delighted to welcome Robert to the team with the news that Anderson Strathern's corporate practice is busier than ever. I think the values announced today will surprise some people, but I believe the addition of Robert to our team confirms our position in the marketplace."

Lloyds TSB Scotland is increasing the size of its local network of agricultural managers. As part of this expansion Mark Robinson and Barry Watson have joined the team as additional agricultural business managers for Scotland.

Mr Robinson, who has worked in various roles during his 20 years with Lloyds TSB Scotland, will be based at the firm's agricultural office in Ayr and Mr Watson joins the team at the Edinburgh office.

Paul Healy, Lloyds TSB Scotland's regional agricultural manager, said: "We all view the next few years as challenging, yet exciting and full of potential for the farming industry and I am delighted to welcome Mark and Barry to our strong network."

"Our aim is to be readily accessible to farmers in Scotland and provide a prompt and attentive service."

To contribute to this column, contact Janis Blanchard on 0131 620 8735 or e-mail [email protected]