Rize Circular Share News (CIRC)

AIM-listed healthcare provider Circle Holdings has appointed Steve Melton as its permanent Chief Executive Officer (CEO), making his current position as interim CEO permanent.Melton joined the Jersey-incorporate company in February 2008 and has held previous positions of Head of Mobilisation and Head of Operations, before being promoted to interim CEO in December 2012.He succeeded Ali Parsa who stepped down as CEO after the group said that it was the "appropriate time" for him to assume a non-executive role.Melton is said to have played a "significant role" in many of Circle's recent achievements, including leading the opening of the Bath and Reading hospitals in March 2010 and August 2012, and the initiation and successful re-bid on the Nottingham Treatment Centre contract.Michael Kirkwood, Circle Holdings Chairman, said: "Steve has a strong track record of successful delivery and driving operational performance, and the board has been impressed by the capable leadership demonstrated during his interim tenure.  "Under his stewardship, we have been awarded preferred bidder status on our key Nottingham contract, and improved group efficiency through an effective head office re-structure. I believe Steve has the right skills to lead Circle through the next phase of execution and growth."