This week's London appointments

Bob Strudwick, Sonovate

Cashflow fintech Sonovate has appointed Bob Strudwick as chief technology officer.

Strudwick brings with him over 30 years’ experience, most recently with online fashion retailer ASOS.

Bob joined the online fashion retailer in 2011 as engineering change programme manager, before progressing to chief technology officer.

Commenting on his new appointment, Bob said: “I’d known about the innovative work that Sonovate was doing in the fintech space for a while. I liked its vision and the boldness of the company’s plans to transform the entire contingent worker market.

“It has a great technology team, one that I’m already building on and strengthening, and I am looking forward to delivering the next phase of growth for Sonovate.”

Sonovate co-CEO, Richard Prime, added: “To have someone with Bob’s experience come on board is a real game changer for us as we continue to deliver the flexible finance and world class tech that companies working with contingent workers are crying out for.

“Our customer base is expanding by the day and Bob will be fundamental to driving this growth both in the UK and internationally. His track record speaks for itself!”

Emma Guy, Vail Williams LLP

Vail Williams LLP has appointed Emma Guy as surveyor.

Following a short career break to have children, MRICS qualified surveyor Emma has joined the firm’s asset management team.

With 20 years’ experience of asset management, leasing and valuation across all property sectors, Emma was previously a director of asset management for the Cadogan Estate in central London.

Prior to that, Emma worked for the Grosvenor Estate as director of lease management leading a team of 15 people to manage the estate’s retail, office and residential asset management work including rent reviews, lease renewals and lease restructures.

Vail Williams’ lead partner for asset management, Alexandra Finlayson, commented: “The work that Emma did to transform Cadegon Estate’s King’s Road portfolio speaks for itself and we are delighted to welcome her to our team as we seek to grow our asset management offering, in line with our firm-wide strategic growth ambitions.”

Speaking of her appointment, Emma added: “This is a firm I’ve known since childhood, having seen their billboards on the Eastern Road in Portsmouth where I grew up.

“I’m excited to now be joining the firm as it seeks to grow its asset management clientele where I will bring my experience representing two large landlords to bear for their clients in Surrey and beyond.”

Kate Higham, Born Social

Social media agency Born Social has appointed Kate Higham as senior operations manager.

Kate joins from Shoreditch based post-production house, Splice, where she held the role of facilities director.

Kate was named an ambassador of BAFTA’s We Are Albert Sustainability Scheme in recognition of her work to cut Splice’s carbon output by over 90 per cent.

Ben Tyson, CEO at Born Social, commented: “Kate brings an impressive skillset that will really energise the way we run our operations at Born Social. We’re excited to welcome her to the agency.” Said Ben Tyson, CEO at Born Social.

Commenting on her new role, Kate added: ““I’m thrilled to join the growing team at Born Social.

“When you find a company whose values and ambitions align with your own, it’s a no brainer. I can’t wait to play my part in the next chapter of their story.”

Nick Wiles, Picton

Real estate investment trust Picton has appointed Nick Wiles as non-executive director.

Nick retired as chairman of UK investment banking at Nomura in 2012. He has worked in investment banking for more than 20 years, with the majority of this time spent at Cazenove & Co, where he was a partner prior to its incorporation.

Nick is currently chairman of PayPoint plc and until earlier this year, was the senior independent non-executive director of Primary Health Properties plc, prior to its merger with MedicX.

Nicholas Thompson, chairman, commented: “Having completed a thorough search to find a high-quality chairman for the business we are delighted to welcome Nick Wiles to the board, and I look forward to working with him to ensure a seamless handover.

“He brings extensive expertise in corporate finance, as well as being an experienced FTSE 250 chairman. His knowledge and skills will further strengthen our existing Board and help Picton to deliver its growth strategy.

Nick Wiles, commented: “I am delighted to be joining Picton at this time. Picton has a well-respected management team who have built a strong track record of creating value for shareholders over a number of years.

“I look forward to working with the Board and management as we look to maximise the future opportunities for all stakeholders in the business.”

Angela Brav, Hertz Global Holdings

Hertz Global Holdings has appointed Angela Brav as president of Hertz’s international division.

Angela brings 25 years of executive experience in the travel industry to her new London-based role.

Joining from hospitality giant InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), Angela held multiple operational and strategic roles in the U.S. and Europe, most recently CEO of IHG’s European region.

Hertz President & CEO, Kathryn Marinello commented: “Angela brings a proven track record of shaping growth strategy, demonstrating multi-brand capabilities, developing franchise portfolios and exhibiting innovative thought leadership all of which are central to our continued success.

“She shares our passion for elevating the customer experience and investing in and developing her teams. She is a strong addition to our leadership team with a focus on strategic, long-term planning for the international business.”

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