CareTech appoints Gareth Dufton as new finance director

Social care outfit CareTech has tapped Gareth Dufton to take on the role of interim finance director in the wake of Michael Hill's unexpected death.

Dufton, a former partner at Moore Stephens, has been involved with CareTech for more than 18 years - initially advising as part of Moore Stephens and later, working directly with the company in a variety of roles.

Chairman Farouq Sheikh said: "We are fortunate to have in Gareth an experienced accountant with a deep understanding of our business, its systems and people and is able to step in following the tragic death of Michael Hill."

The AIM-listed group also revealed that it intends to add two more independent non-executive directors to its board following its acquisition of Cambian back in 2018.

CareTech said: "This process has taken longer than originally hoped however the board is pleased with the calibre of candidates it has met to date and is confident that these appointments can be made in the coming months."

As of 1000 GMT, CareTech shares had picked up 1.45% to 350p.