Canford Healthcare has appointed Laird Mackay as chief operating officer.

Laird (pictured) was previously managing director for Caring Homes for eight years and a trustee and board member of Care England. He also has experience in health and social care, learning development, and mental health, and has an MBA from the Open University.

Mackay will be responsible for the operational running and support of Canford’s portfolio, reporting to chief executive Brian Cooney.

Cooney said: “We believe he will make a great contribution to the organisation, bringing, as he does, a wealth of experience and understanding of the sector, as well as commercial acumen.”

Laird added: “I’m excited to be embarking on this new venture with Canford Healthcare and very much looking forward to supporting the company in its future growth and aspirations and playing my part in making it a great success”.

Canford Healthcare is based in Poole in Dorset and operates 12 residential and nursing care for the elderly.

Compass Executives advised on Mackay's appointment.