David Pitt-Watson was named director of investments at Hermes Pensions...

David Pitt-Watson was named director of investments at Hermes Pensions Management, effective Nov. 11. He will oversee the firm's Focus Funds, corporate governance and the recently launched Equity Ownership Services, according to a news release from the company. Mr. Pitt-Watson replaces Peter Butler, former head of corporate governance, and Steve Brown, former managing director of investments; both resigned earlier this week. Mr. Pitt-Watson was managing director of the firm's large-capitalization UK Focus Fund; he will be replaced by John Leach, who was executive director, responsible for turnaround strategies in corporate governance. Other members of Mr. Leach's team will assume his duties.