Steve Melton, the former chief executive of private hospital group Circle Health, has taken up the role of managing director of patient services at dental giant IDH Group.

IDH, which trades as mydentist, is the UK’s largest provider of dental services with over 650 dental practices across the UK. It also owns Dental Directory, which supplies around 12,000 dental practices with materials and equipment. IDH is 85% owned by The Carlyle Group and Palamon Capital Partners, with the rest owned by management. It was reported in 2015 that the company was gearing up for a flotation.  

Melton left AIM-listed Circle Health at the end of last year after eight years at the company. He joined as chief operating officer in 2008 and took on the chief executive role in 2012. Prior to Circle he worked in retail holding posts such as supply chain director at Argos and general manager – non-food at Asda.

He replaces Annette Spindler in the role, effective immediately.

IDH has also promoted Dr Nyree Whitley as group clinical director. Whitley has over 20 years experience in clinical practice and was a regional clinical director at IDH for the past 18 months.

Tom Riall, chief executive of IDH Group, said: “Nyree and Steve join IDH Group with more than 50 years’ experience across dentistry, the wider healthcare sector, and retail. We now have a strong leadership team in place to take the business forward and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.”