Jon Mercer has been appointed Finance Director with corporate recovery and restructuring specialist Leonard Curtis.

As well as heading up the finance department, Jon's role will include business development, in particular expanding the service lines in the LC Corporate Strategies operation to include debt restructuring and accelerated M&A products.

Prior to joining Leonard Curtis Jon was a director with Clearwater Corporate Finance.

"Moving to a successful and rapidly growing business is both an exciting and challenging opportunity. We have already identified two new regions for the firm's geographical expansion, with a view to becoming a truly national practice," said Jon.

"I feel we have a very valuable role to play in helping businesses in distress in these difficult times."

Leonard Curtis director John Titley said: "Jon has built up a wealth of experience and large network of key contacts in the industry. He has an impressive track record of work with entrepreneurs, private equity and multinationals advising on disposals, acquisitions and finance raisings. We are convinced Jon will play a major part in taking the business forward in the years ahead."

Originally qualifying with Arthur Andersen in 2000, Jon has spent a decade in corporate finance, advising on over £500m of transactions. He is married, with two daughters and lives in Heaton Moor, Stockport.

Leonard Curtis is a national independent practice with more than 100 staff based at offices in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bury, Blackburn, Wolverhampton and Newcastle.

The firm provides directors of struggling businesses with positive strategic advice, enabling them to retain control of their business, as well as creditors and professionals involved with those dealing with debt and financial problems.

LC Corporate Strategies has particular expertise in crown debt restructuring and cashflow management for UK companies in distress.