Alexander is oil and gas chief

Alexander is oil and gas chief

INDEPENDENT Scottish accountancy firm Johnston Carmichael has appointed Graham Alexander, right, as the new head of its oil and gas industry group.

Mr Alexander, who is based in Aberdeen, is a corporate finance partner at the firm, with more than 20 years' experience in dealing with oil and gas service companies. He joined the firm as part of its merger with Ritson Smith in 2012.

Chief executive Sandy Manson said: "We are delighted to appoint someone of Graham's commercial experience and energy to grow our market share in this important sector for our firm.

"The oil and gas service sector is one of the largest industry groups in our firm, therefore knowing the issues and opportunities which our clients face in the industry is critical in helping us give practical and valuable advice across all of our business lines, such as tax and corporate finance.

"Johnston Carmichael places a great emphasis on industry knowledge and under Graham's leadership I know our oil and gas industry credentials and expertise will only go from strength to strength."

Bright sparks for Borders firm

SPARK Energy, the specialist energy provider for the private rented sector, has appointed Darren Ypey, right, as its first head of sales.

It has also hired six new sales staff as it bids to increase its customer base by 30% this year.

This business hires come after Spark struck a new wholesale trading agreement with Morgan Stanley, which enables it to access wholesale markets.

Managing director Chris Gauld said: "Spark is now a top five employer in the Scottish Borders, with over 200 staff, and we are on track to double our turnover to more than £80 million in 2014, from £40m in 2013. Our growth programme is based on continued investment into the company, whether it is increasing the sales team or the £1.4m improvements to our customer services department.

"We are starting an exciting new chapter for the company and we are delighted to welcome Darren and the rest of his new team on board."

Gallacher joins board of Gaia-Wind

GAIA-Wind, the Scottish small wind turbine manufacturer, has appointed sales and marketing director John Gallacher to its board.

Mr Gallacher, who joined the company in March, has held a number of sales positions for a series of industrial brands, including BDR Thermea, Rolta and Rittal.

Johnnie Andringa, chief executive of Gaia-Wind, said: "We are delighted to have secured John as a director of Gaia-Wind.

"John's contribution to the work of the Board will draw on his consistency, diligence and drive to solidify Gaia-Wind's status as market leader within the global small wind turbine industry.

"He has played a significant role in navigating Gaia-Wind through a period of development."