Roderick Pettigrew has been appointed as chief executive of B&ES - the Building & Engineering Services Association - with immediate effect.

Commenting on the appointment, B&ES president Bruce Bisset explained that, having served as deputy chief executive of the Association (formerly the HVCA) since 2008, Mr Pettigrew had an unrivalled understanding of the Association and a deep appreciation of the needs of its membership.

"Rod has worked closely over the past two years with the officer team in developing a vision and strategy for B&ES. I am delighted, therefore, that he will be taking the leading role in its implementation," said Mr Bisset.

In his first day in his new post, Mr Pettigrew acknowledged that the Association, and the sector it serves, faced very significant challenges.

He said: "The continuing recession, technological advances, radical changes in working practices and the imperatives of the low-carbon agenda mean that the industry must be prepared to adapt to the developing requirements of the marketplace.

"It is essential therefore, that B&ES members are able to rely on us for the expert advice, guidance and practice support they will require in the challenging days ahead. I am determined that they will not be disappointed."