Longcross MD on lookout for acquisitions

Longcross, which is managed by Harrogate-based investment company Ripley Asset Management, specialises in the acquisition of commercial and residential property. Mr Hardman, partner at Ripley Asset Management LLP, is now looking for more acquisitions for the Longcross Property Investment Fund.

Elsewhere, waste management specialist Orchard Environmental has appointed Chris Leach to the role of sales manager. Mr Leach has held management roles with Biffa and most recently Shanks, where he was general manager for the North of England and Scotland. The Orchard Group is based in Elland.

Harrogate law firm Berwins has strengthened its business team with the appointment of employment lawyer Mike Patterson. Mr Patterson’s expertise in the field has been gained from working with law firms Dickinson Dees, Lupton Fawcett and Irwin Mitchell and in-house for various organisations. He was part of the legal team at the Department of Health before joining 2 Sisters’ Food Group, formerly Northern Foods, where he advised both on a wide range of employment issues. His most recent role was at Harrogate Borough Council.

Law firm Cobbetts has expanded its real estate team with the appointment of Jim Speed as partner within its Leeds office. He joins Cobbetts from Pinsent Masons.

Brand consultancy Propaganda has attracted two senior marketeers from London and made three other appointments, expanding its 45-strong team in Leeds.

Relocating from London are Sally Tindall, senior planner and Jonathan Palmer, senior account director. The three other appointments are Julian Pearce, corporate communications manager, Beth Catling, project manager and Lucille Pickering, marketing executive.