NORTHERN Security has appointed Stuart Davison to the newly-created position of head of operations to help facilitate its plans for growth.

The firm, founded in Carlisle in 1998, moved from Upperby to much larger premises in Peterfield Road, Kingstown, last year.

Managing director Paul Hopper has plans to double the size of the business over the next three years.

Mr Davison, 39, has joined from Virgin Trains where he spent 18 years, latterly as a customer experience manager based in Preston.

His role at Northern Security is to ensure operational efficiency, target business development and enhance customer relations.

Mr Hopper said: “Stuart’s appointment is an important move for Northern Security. We’ve targeted significant growth and it’s vital we have the correct people and resource in place to deliver that growth.

“Stuart is a key addition to our already robust management team. In addition to his management and operational skills, it’s also a benefit to have someone from outside the security industry.

“His fresh perspective will create new ideas and initiatives, helping to set us apart from our competitors and pushing the business forward.”

Northern Security employs 150 staff. Clients include the Cumberland Building Society, AW Jenkinson and the University of Cumbria.

In other job moves, law firm Napthens has appointed solicitor Kate Mallaband as a partner and head of commercial property in Cumbria.

She joins from Oglethorpe Sturton & Gillibrand based in Lancaster and will work from Napthens’ Penrith and Kendal offices.

Ms Mallaband has particular knowledge of landlord and tenant law, estate management work and retail portfolios.