Retail recruiter Retail Human Resources (RHR) is to move into the hospitality sector with the appointment of Berkeley Scott Group founder Roddy Watt.

Watt, who launched hospitality recruiter Berkeley Scott in 1984, will take a position on RHR’s board.

Peter Burgess, managing director of RHR, says: “The hospitality and leisure sector is one we have been observing for some time as it sits very comfortably alongside the retail sector. With the appointment of Roddy Watt, we are now laying down a marker that we are deadly serious about developing a strong presence in this normally exciting and vibrant market.”

Roddy Watt says: “I am delighted to be joining RHR at this time. While the recruitment environment is very difficult in most quarters, it is clear that an opportunity exists within the hospitality & leisure sector in particular.

“A number of the key players in the market have undergone enormous change, others are in disarray, and many of the smaller businesses have either gone or are under severe pressure.

“As such, with the resource, infrastructure and financial strength of a market leader such as RHR, there is tremendous scope to take a significant position in this market which I know so well.”