This week's London appointments

Philip Stevenson, JDO London

Brand design specialist JDO Group has promoted client business director Philip Stevenson to managing director of its London office.

Prior to his time at JDO London, Philip held senior positions at agencies such as Blue Marlin and Interbrand.

Philip commented: “I’m delighted to be heading up JDO’s London office at such an exciting and dynamic time for the industry.

“The discipline divisions have come down and both consumer and client mindsets have changed the way brand design agencies need to engage. Agility and ambition is critical for our clients who are engaging us to solve an ever widening array of brand design problems.”

Fiona Florence, MD of JDO Group, added: “Our London studio is an inspirational new creative space – it is pivotal to our strategic growth plan and Philip is the ideal guy to lead the London team.

“A brand man through and through, he is a natural leader and communicator, with an inherent understanding of JDO’s guiding ethos: ‘We create belief’.”

David Dunwoody, Toby Yates and Hugo Langlois, Vail Williams

Property specialist Vail Williams has made three promotions within its team.

David Dunwoody, who joined the firm in 2017, specialises in property valuation and has been promoted to associate from senior surveyor.

In his new role, David will continue to build on the firm’s relationships with challenger and private banks.

David commented: “It is great to be rewarded for my hard work and it gives me the gravitas and recognition to continue to work to the next level, whilst reinforcing confidence in my role.

“This next step will see me develop and grow further with Vail Williams, as they continue to invest in my career and professional development.”

Toby Yates, a senior surveyor in the firm’s property investment team, has also been promoted to associate.

Toby joined the firm in 2012 and works with local authorities, property companies and private equity firms on the acquisition and disposal of commercial property.

Speaking of his promotion, Toby said: “I’m pleased to be taking greater responsibility and my promotion recognises the valuable role I play. I am looking forward to enjoying a more central role in the investment team, working more with our regional offices, whilst assisting others to progress within the company too.”

Hugo Langlois has been promoted to a level 3 surveyor for his work advising on the acquisition and disposal of commercial property across London and the South East.

James Lacey, Vail Williams’ regional managing partner for London, commented: “It is unusual for us to make promotions mid-year, but the work that David, Toby and Hugo have been doing here in London has been so exceptional, that it is absolutely the right thing to do.

“As part of our ‘recognising talent’ programme we proactively look at career paths and work with our teams to keep progression at the forefront of our growth strategy.

“Together with our cultural values and agile approach to working, this helps us to become the employer of choice - attracting and retaining the very best talent in the sector, for the benefit of our clients.”

Neil Aitken, BT Group

Telecoms giant BT Group has appointed Neil Aitkin as public affairs lead for London and the South East.

Formerly head of communications at Pay.UK, Neil began his career at HM Treasury and has worked in a range of roles at organisations including the Food Standards Agency, Camden Council and Birkbeck College.

The former Paralympian, who competed for Great Britain as a 15-year-old at the Atlanta Games in 1996, will lead BT Group’s relationships with policymakers across the London and South East region.

Commenting on the new role, Neil said: “I’m really looking forward to my new role with BT, at what is a very exciting time for the company.

“Our long-term plan for Britain will make London and the South East better connected and more competitive than ever, giving individuals and businesses the digital infrastructure and skills they need to grow and succeed.”

Paul Coles, BT Group English regions director, added: “I look forward to working with Neil in his new role. His experience working in a highly regulated sector and managing multiple stakeholder relationships will be a huge asset in his new role.

“BT Group contributes around £10.3 billion to the London and South East economy and plays an important role in the lives of everyone living and working in the region. I know that Neil will build on our existing relationships, helping to lead and shape the public policy debate on improved digital services in the region.”

Steve Smith, Exclusive Collection

Hospitality group Exclusive Collection has appointed Steve Smith as head chef of Michelin starred restaurant The Latymer at the Pennyhill Park hotel in Surrey.

Steve will join the restaurant from Michelin starred Bohemia at The Club Hotel & Spa in Jersey, where he has held the position of executive chef since January 2013.

Starting his career in the kitchen of Jean Christophe Novelli, Steve went on to work with chefs such as Shaun Hill, Paul Heathcote and Simon Gueller.

Steve achieved his first Michelin star at the age of 24 during his time as head chef at Gordleton Mill. His career has also included a 5-year stint as Head Chef of The Burlington at The Devonshire Arms Hotel in Skipton, West Yorkshire, where the restaurant was also awarded a Michelin star with Steve overseeing the kitchen.

Steve commented: “I’m incredibly excited to be joining The Latymer, it’s a fantastic opportunity to further develop my cuisine and the restaurant in such a beautiful setting. My food will be flavour and texture driven using the best available seasonal produce.”

Graham Copeman, general manager of Pennyhill Park, added: “We’re thrilled to have Steve join us at the hotel and for us all to have the opportunity to work with such a passionate chef.

“His commitment to the finest gastronomy matches our philosophies here at Pennyhill Park and I look forward to seeing the direction in which he takes the restaurant.”