HR recruiter Barnes Kavelle has recruited a chartered occupational psychologist to help clients improve the performance and welfare of their staff.

Clare Cook, who has worked with clients such as Linde Material Handling, Bacardi and ASDA, joins the human resources team from an occupational psychology consultancy in Manchester.

Cook, a specialist in selection, assessment and employee well-being, will focus on advising businesses about the psychological impact of the downturn and the best ways to identify individuals most at risk of stress.

Ruth Eden, head of HR Services at Barnes Kavelle, says: “I have been impressed with Clare from the very beginning as she has exactly the right balance of skill, knowledge and enthusiasm to offer businesses the very best advice.”