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Faithful+Gould managing director Richard Hall is relocating to America to lead the firm's ambitious growth plans there.

Hall said he would be moving to one of the firm's East Coast offices to spearhead the expansion. F+G last year declared plans to nearly double its North American workforce in the next five years.

Hall said the move was part of F+G parent company Atkins' desire to create a truly global company. "Rather than being managed by the UK, there will be representation on the Atkins executive board across the globe," he said.

Hall said he would be building on the firm's acquisition of US firm Hanscomb, struck four years ago.

"It's an exciting move for me," Hall said. "It's a good market for us. The UK market is mature but there are big opportunities in the States. It's not just for construction management but for the consultant market, which is taking off."

Hall's move means a step up for F+G director Donald Lawson, who now becomes chief executive for the UK. Hall insists he will retain a keen interest in the UK division. "Donald will deal with the UK on a daily basis. It's still the biggest part of the business, so is very important."

The news follows an impressive performance by the firm for the year to 31 March. Atkins' management and project service arm, which includes F+G, saw turnover rise 13% to £171m and operating profit jump 50% to £13.9m.

In a statement, the company said F+G had an "excellent year". It added that prospects were good, with opportunities for redeveloping railway stations, consultancy on expansions of regional airports and health and education work.

Atkins also announced it had bought IT the programme manager Mantix Group for £8.75m. Mantix helps clients make major investments in technology and business change.