Kent-based Apex Contractors has promoted Ian Cannings to managing director and has appointed Richard Lane non-executive director.

Cannings joined Apex as a director in July 2003 from Wates, where he headed up its £90m turnover fit-out arm, and plans to set up a dedicated interiors business at Apex.

He said: “Apex has already shown that it has excellent growth potential, core disciplines and reputation. I’m very excited to be given the opportunity to grow the company significantly.”

Lane is a specialist in growing businesses and was a member of accountancy network BDO Stoy Hayward’s business advice arm for eight years. He was awarded the OBE in 1998 for services to business and the community.

Founded in 1991 by Kai Midgley, now chairman, the company’s 2003 turnover is expected to exceed £10m. Its core activities are refurbishment and construction for, among others, housing associations and local authorities.

Apex has also appointed Ian McDonald as project director. He will specialise in the insurance sector.