Orchard Care Homes has announced that interim chief executive Tom Brookes will be taking on the role permanently.

Brookes (pictured) took on the interim post this summer after previous chief executive Paul Mancey stepped down, as was reported by HealthInvestor UK. Mancey’s resignation coincided with the handing back of Orchard’s management contract for the 20 Lifestyle Care homes it manages.

Commenting on Brookes’ appointment, Orchard chairman Robbie Burns said: “Tom is a highly respected and knowledgeable executive, who has a reputation for strong business leadership.

“The combination of Tom’s sector experience, drive and track record in delivering results make him the ideal candidate to lead Orchard in its future stages of development.”

Owned by private equity firm Alchemy Partners, Orchard operates care homes across England and Wales.