Roberts gets onboard as new MD of McGill's

THERE will be a new face in the driving seat at Inverclyde's largest public transport operator from the start of June, following the appointment of Ralph Roberts as the new managing director of McGill's, which runs more than 130 buses across almost 40 routes from its depots in Greenock and Barrhead.

Described as "one of Scotland's leading transport specialists", Roberts formerly worked for bus and rail giant Arriva.

He says: "McGill's is on the cusp of becoming a major player in Scotland and I look forward to the challenges that lie ahead at this pivotal stage in the company's development."

Roberts will join the existing management team of Bert Hendry, general manager, and Graeme Davidson, who holds the post of finance director. James Easdale will become group chairman.

HSBC has announced the appointment of Scott McClurg, who joins the bank's Scottish corporate banking team in Glasgow.

The new man brings some 12 years of experience to the post, having held a variety of senior roles in corporate finance, the banking industry and within SMEs.

Commenting on his appointment, Scott McClurg said: "HSBC deservedly has a strong reputation for building long-term, supportive relationships with quality Scottish corporates. I am excited about helping to take that forward, as HSBC is keen to attract new business, particularly those quality corporates which have a desire to expand both domestically and internationally."

Irene Grant, head of corporate banking, Scotland, says: "We are delighted that Scott is joining HSBC. His first-hand experience of working as a finance director and an adviser will be invaluable."

Royal London 360, the international arm of the Scottish Life-owner, has promoted Andrew Dudgeon to product and investment marketing manager.

Schooled in the Isle of Man, Dudgeon studied for a degree in marketing at the University of Stirling. He describes his new role as "a fantastic opportunity".

Mathilde's rise to top Hilton job through Elevator training

HILTON Glasgow has a new manager for its award-winning contemporary Scottish restaurant Cameron's.

Mathilde Brallet, originally from France, has taken on the role following her successful entry into the hotel group's "Elevator" programme, which is designed to help graduates develop skills and experience to be fast-tracked to a general manager position at a Hilton site.

Craig Gardner, general manager at Hilton Glasgow, says: "Mathilde joins a talented team at Cameron's who are renowned for their successes in the kitchen. We invest a lot of time training and developing young people, honing their skills to bring out the best of their talent."

Brallet adds: "It's great to be able to work in such a well-respected and established restaurant, and I hope to work with head chef James Murphy in developing our offering."

BAD DAY

Willie Walsh (and BA passengers)

A BAD end to a bad week for the boss of British Airways. Last-ditch talks between the airline's management and union leaders failed to avert a three-day strike by BA cabin crew affecting thousands of travellers. Walsh said it was "deeply regrettable" that the union declined to accept a proposal on pay and working conditions.

GOOD DAY

Lindsay Gardiner

GARDINER, a partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers, has taken the helm of the "big four" accountant's Scottish assurance practice. Based in Edinburgh, he will lead a 480-strong team including 20 partners across areas such as, audit, transaction services and risk assurance services. Gardiner, who hails from Lockerbie, has been with PwC for more than 20 years.