SAPPHIRE Technologies has recruited a new consultant to its expert team.

DENNIS WHINCUP, pictured, has joined the Stockton information security and e-development company as technical consultant, in the information security division.

He has a wealth of experience in Internet security, having previously worked for BT Syntegra and Norwich Union.

Mr Whincup will be advising businesses on methods of preventing computer-related crime. He said: "Many companies now have sophisticated IT systems, which must be secure to prevent all threats to them.

"The potential damage to them can cost a company thousands of pounds to put right and damage its reputation.

"I am looking forward to the challenge of educating businesses about the risks and explaining the effective solutions that Sapphire can offer."

l Housing Association Enterprise Five has appointed SHARON BUSHBY as a team leader. The graduate in housing management will be responsible for managing a team of housing officers and more than 720 of the association's 2000 properties across the region.

l Business advisor Grant Thornton has appointed IAIN MACKENZIE as an assistant manager in the audit department of its Newcastle office. The 33-year-old, from South Shields, studied accountancy at Newcastle Polytechnic and has worked for several accountancy firms on Tyneside.

l BIB in Darlington has appointed DANIEL LAWS to its team of financial advisors. The 28-year-old will work closely with a wide variety of the company's clients. He previously worked in the financial planning department of Prudential for two years, and prior to that he was at Barclays for seven years.

l ANNE SYKES has joined marketing solutions company Chapman Stewart Teesside as an account manager. She was formerly business development manager at Tall Trees Hotel and Leisure Clubs, and has extensive knowledge of sales and marketing, as well as experience of event management.

l North-East menswear retail chain The Officers Club has promoted operations director DAVID GLAZEBROOK to managing director. He joined the company in 1998, and has been instrumental in the rapid nationwide expansion of the chain