HOMEBUILDERS Persimmon Homes have appointed a new managing director to head up their Essex operation.Ian Jeffrey, 44, has 22 years' experience in the house-building industry, after starting as a technical engineer with Barratt East London.

HOMEBUILDERS Persimmon Homes have appointed a new managing director to head up their Essex operation.

Ian Jeffrey, 44, has 22 years' experience in the house-building industry, after starting as a technical engineer with Barratt East London.

Before joining Persimmon, he was with Bellway Homes for 11 years, where he held a number of posts, including land director and finally managing director.

Based at Witham, he will be responsible for overseeing all elements of the business on a day-to-day basis and co-ordinating the smooth running of the company.

Mr Jeffrey, who is married with three children and lives in Chelmsford, said he was “delighted” to be joining the company.

“I am looking forward to tackling the many challenges ahead of me and I hope that in my new role I can contribute to Persimmon's continuing success across Essex,” he said.