IT SERVICES giant Logica has appointed a new general manager for Scotland, more than a year after the departure of Judith Halkerston.
Martin Ewart, former investment director at private equity firm Arkaga, has been taken on to grow the business.
Logica, which employs about 300 people in Scotland and has a turnover from its Scottish division of £40 million, boasts a client list t
hat includes the Scottish Parliament, ScottishPower and BP.
Ewart, who also previously worked as group technology director for HBOS, said: "Logica has a strong record of delivering on commitments. It has never been more important for us to continue to do so."
He added: "Our clients are steering themselves through the economic downturn. We aim to support them and ensure their success."
Joe Hemming, UK chief executive of Logica, commented: "Martin's appointment reflects our desire to further grow and develop business in Scotland.
"During these challenging times, we believe it is important to take a long-term view. Logica's Scottish business is an important element in our global operation.
"This is a time to make sure we have the capability to support our clients through difficult times."
Ewart said he was confident Logica would weather the downturn due to its exposure to a wide range of sectors.
He explained: "We work in the oil and gas industry, transport and financial services. There is such a wide range of companies that we are working with."
Halkerston, who was appointed head of Logica's Scottish operations in February 2006, left the post just over a year ago to become UK managing director for energy, utilities and telecoms.
Last year, Logica cut 1,300 jobs from its 39,000-strong global workforce, but Ewart told The Scotsman there were "no plans" for further cuts.
It also announced in April that it planned to cut a further £10m from its costs in 2009.
Ewart's appointment comes shortly after Jim Martin, Logica's Scottish chairman, announced he was to step down from the company to become Scottish Public Services Ombudsman.
