Alex Birch, Langleys Solicitors 

The corporate team at Langleys Solicitors has boosted its ranks with the appointment of associate solicitor Alex Birch.   Alex joins York and Lincoln-based Langleys from DWF in Leeds, having previously worked at Cobbetts and Nabarro.  

She has considerable experience in advising public and private companies, management teams and their respective advisers on M&A, MBOs and corporate governance issues.  

Alex joins an experienced team, recognised as a leading player in the Yorkshire legal market in all aspects of corporate law.  

Christian Hunt, who heads up the corporate team at Langleys, said: “Alex’s focus on developing long term relationships with clients and advisers and providing sound commercial advice fits well with the values of Langleys and we are delighted to welcome her to the team.”  

Commenting on her new role, Alex said: “I am excited about joining Langleys. The team is recognised as a leading player in the regional legal market and I look forward to working with the whole team in providing a first class service to our growing portfolio of clients.”

Andrew Gardner, Glentrool Estates

Ilkley-based property developer, Glentrool Estates, has appointed Andrew Gardner as project director.

Andrew joins Glentrool from Leeds-based property consultancy Fox Lloyd Jones, where he was a senior surveyor. 

He previously worked for the Consult Group, EC Harris and Gleeds.He will be responsible for Glentrool’s flagship project, Sherburn 2, the 75-acre development and employment site close to the A1 at Sherburn-in-Elmet.

Andrew commented: “The opportunity to join Glentrool was just too good to miss. I was sad to leave Fox Lloyd Jones, where I had been for nearly four years, but I have known and worked with Jeremy and Paul Nolan of Glentrool for some time and I jumped at the chance to join them.

“My main focus will be on Sherburn2, which is a truly exciting project, and which will deliver a massive boost to the Selby region’s economy as it is developed out, creating 2,550 sustainable jobs.

“It will also underline the reputation of Sherburn as one of the most popular manufacturing, logistics and distribution hubs in the north of England. We are proud to be part of that success story.

“Our project team have the freedom and the flexibility to move swiftly to meet the needs of potential occupiers and their individual requirements on site. With units ranging from 35,000 sq ft to 575,000 sq ft, there will be buildings to suit a wide variety of small-to-medium sized enterprises (SMEs) as well as the larger manufacturing and distribution companies,”

Gavin Turner, Bridon

Bridon, a Doncaster-based manufacturer of wire and fibre rope, has appointed Gavin Turner as new sector marketing manager.

Gavin joins Bridon after working in a global marketing role for a FTSE 100 manufacturing company for seven years.   

Andy Dodwell, Group Commercial Director for Bridon said: “We welcome Gavin to the group and look forward to working with him to strengthen our marketing.   “We recognise that we have a fantastic opportunity to communicate with how our world class ropes can help our customers and potential customers save money on their operating costs.  

“Gavin’s first project will be to work with businesses across the globe to showcase how our products can save them operational costs due to their quality and longevity.  

“Our £30 million factory in the UK manufactures the largest and most complex ropes ever made, in package weights of up to 650 tonnes, boasting enhanced breaking loads, optimised bend fatigue performance, effective lubrication, and minimal rotation under load.  

“As a global technology leader we have one of the world’s most advanced facilities for the development and testing of offshore ropes, the Bridon Technology Centre, where we are constantly pushing the boundaries of current rope capabilities and finding new solutions to the problems posed by deeper waters.”

Gavin said: “I am delighted to be able to take up this role at Bridon. The company clearly prides itself on product innovation and customer service and I am really excited about becoming a part of this team.”

Alex Richardson, DS.Emotion

Alex Richardson has been appointed to head up the growing digital team at DS.Emotion in Leeds. 

Alex joins the creative and digital marketing agency from Brass where he led integrated campaigns for brands including Lucozade and Ribena.

At DS.Emotion Alex will assume responsibility for insight and ideas generation, scoping and planning along with project and team management duties. 

More immediately Alex will pick up digital campaign planning for Moda Living, Civica, Henry Boot, Hill Residential and Fullers Foods Plc.

Angus Armitage, Director at DS.Emotion said, “We are delighted to bring Alex into the senior team at DS.Emotion. He is clearly highly regarded in the industry and his experience working with big brands such as Procter and Gamble and PlayStation will undoubtedly bring strategic value to our clients.”

DS.Emotion was established in Leeds 23 years ago and now operates nationally with studios in London and Manchester as well as Leeds.

(L-R) Steve Eastwood and Owen Finn

Steve Eastwood, Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce  

The Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce has elected Steve Eastwood as its 178th president at its recent AGM.

Mr Eastwood, who works for Lorica Insurance Brokers, takes over the presidency from  lawyer Tim Durkin.

Mr Eastwood has worked with many businesses across the Humber during his 30 years in the insurance profession and has served as President of the Insurance Institute of Hull.

His direct involvement with the Chamber stretches back more than 20 years and he has served on local and regional councils as well as the board.

The Chamber’s new Vice President is Owen Finn, managing director of Premier Building & Engineering Services UK Ltd.

Mr Finn has been a board member of the Chamber for a number of years and his knowledge and experience has contributed significantly to the growth and direction of the Chamber.

Joanne Shaw, Irwin Mitchell

The Sheffield-based Property Litigation team at Yorkshire-based law firm Irwin Mitchell has added to its expertise with the appointment of solicitor Joanne Shaw.

Joining the firm from the Birmingham office of Eversheds, Joanne specialises in real estate litigation and has experience in a range of matters, including handling landlord and tenant disputes for both commercial and private clients.

She also has experience of lease renewals, possession issues in both the commercial and residential sectors, as well as insolvency and dilapidations.

Her appointment adds to the wealth of high quality property expertise based at Irwin Mitchell’s Sheffield office, across both the Property Litigation team and also the Real Estate team led by Paul Firth.

Discussing her move, Joanne said: ““It is a fantastic time to join Irwin Mitchell, with the continued growth of its business legal services offering making it a fantastic place for me to push forward and further develop my career.

“The firm has a very bright future with a wealth of knowledge and expertise across its teams and I’m very excited about being a part of helping it progress to greater success in the future.”

Danny Revitt, Partner and Head of Property Litigation at Irwin Mitchell, said: “We are delighted that Joanne has joined us and are sure she will become a core asset to our team.

“Her appointment is a reflection of the growth that continues to be seen in our business legal services teams and we know that her expertise will prove invaluable as we look to grow our team alongside our renowned Real Estate team.”

Kate Byers & Lucy Herbert, Irwin Mitchell

Leeds-based law firm Irwin Mitchell has appointed Kate Byers and Lucy Herbert into its Newcastle office.

Kate, who is head of Pension Documents at Irwin Mitchell, has over 30 years of experience in the sector and moves to Irwin Mitchell from DWF.

A Fellow of the Pensions Management Institute, Kate provides legal and regulatory advice to the trustees and sponsoring employers of both defined benefit and defined contribution occupational pension schemes.

Lucy Herbert, who also moves to Irwin Mitchell from DWF, is experienced in both the public and private sectors and advises trustees and organisations on a range of pension issues. 

The arrivals of Lucy and Kate follow that of partner Martin Jenkins who moved to Irwin Mitchell last December to take up the role of National Head of Pensions. 

At the beginning of 2015, pensions expert Claire Dimmock also joined the firm’s Leeds office as an associate.

Martin Jenkins said: “Irwin Mitchell has some very ambitious plans for growing its national pensions department and these latest hires take the total of new Associates joining the team to three since the turn of the year. 

"I am delighted that Kate and Lucy have joined the firm as they are both highly experienced in the sector and have a track record for providing excellent service to clients.”

Andy Brown & Ron Anderson, North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC)

The North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) has expanded once again welcoming two new business advisers to the team. 

Ron Anderson and Andy Brown bring with them over 20 years of business support experience to the start-up team. Ron, who joined the company earlier in the year, commented: “Throughout my career as a business adviser I have worked closely with the BIC and always admired the way it was ran and thankfully I was lucky enough to be able to work for them first hand. 

“I like supplying clients with information and there is a misconception that starting a business is very complicated but with the right support it can be a smooth process. I enjoy helping people and making them realise that becoming your own boss is not as daunting as they may think. I am really enjoying settling into my role here.”  

Strengthening the business support team alongside Ron is Andy who recently joined at the beginning of March. Andy brings with him a wealth of experience with 17 years in banking as well as 12 years offering business support and mentoring, Andy adds: “Like Ron, I have always had strong links with the BIC and thought that they were fantastic for offering business support, when I saw an opportunity to come and work with the team I jumped at the chance. 

“I love the variety of people that come through the door; from university graduates to the unemployed. I love helping someone who has a basis for a business, an idea and helping them get to the point of becoming self-employed, that’s a huge sense of achievement for the individual and I love the buzz.

“Everyone has been very welcoming to myself and Ron and it’s a fun, warm organisation to work for.” 

Robbie Bentham, Banks Group

North East property and energy firm the Banks Group has recruited an experienced mining industry professional as part of its drive to further improve the efficiency of its vehicle and machinery fleet.

Robbie Bentham has joined the Durham-headquartered firm as its new plant director and now has responsibility for developing enhanced ways of working across its different sites in Scotland and the North of England.

Robbie, who lives in Tudhoe, has moved to Banks Mining after a quarter of a century in regional and national roles with plant and equipment supplier Finning.

The Banks Group employs over 420 people in surface mining, renewable energy and property development, and its plant fleet ranges from Land Rovers through to HGVs and the latest 100 tonne Caterpillar 777G off-highway dump trucks.

Robbie Bentham says: "The substantial plant investments that companies like the Banks Group make have to be matched through the returns they make possible, both in commercial terms and in the better ways in which they enable the workforce to do their jobs.

"The company’s strategic direction comes from the very top and is embraced by the team at every level, and I’ll be working to build on the excellent progress we’re continuing to make on maximising the efficiency with which we all work."

Gavin Styles, executive director at Banks Mining, adds: "Robbie’s vast industry knowledge and experience adds greatly to the expertise we can call on in managing our ever-growing plant resources, and he will play a central role in how our operations develop in the future."

John Ward, Gott Technical Services

North East-based garage equipment supplier, Gott Technical Services, is gearing up towards expanding its services further afield with a new addition to the team.

John Ward from Hartlepool has joined the company as an engineer covering a large area up to southern Scotland, and across to Cumbria and the wider North West region.

Prior to joining the team, John had experience as an electro-hydraulic mechanical engineer with the UK’s leading supplier of loading bay solutions, working for the likes of Tesco and Morrisons.

John said: “Having been an engineer for over 25 years, I’ve found the transition into the automotive industry fairly smooth – it has just been a case of learning how to use the sector-specific equipment. When I first started, Gott put me through my Garage Equipment Association certification so I was fully qualified.

“I am based out of the office which I’m used to. I like the independence of the role and no day or week are ever the same. I also get to work indoors unlike my last job so don’t have to worry about always getting wet!”

Gott Technical Services director Ian Gott said: “There has been a shift in technology in the industry over recent years whereby computerised machines demand a new skillset, beginning to replace hydraulic, mechanical and pneumatic engineering disciplines.

“John will primarily enhance our services in taking on the traditional route, including installation, maintenance, repairs and breakdowns – however he also has computer skills which will prove invaluable.”

Gott Technical Services now employs four engineers and a senior engineer, amongst its 18 staff members and is looking to take on further engineers to strengthen its presence the North West area.

Barry McDonald, Fastflow 

Barry McDonald, Fastflow’s first employee 24 years ago, has been appointed managing director of Fastflow Pipeline Services Limited.

The promotion comes after the business secured a water network improvement, repair, reinstatement and meter installation contract worth £270m.

Barry was a key player in Fastflow retaining all of its current North East work with Northumbrian Water (NW) in the asset managament plan (AMP6 ) framework agreement.  In addition, it will now also carry out work for Essex & Suffolk Water – also part of the NW Group.

He says:  “I am delighted to have been offered the post at the end of an extremely busy and successful year for the business.  The contracts were won in the face of stiff opposition from major players in the construction and infrastructure sector.

“I believe this is because of the value and quality of services we offer.  This is not just in terms of price but the way we harness technology and innovation in our processes, our commitment to corporate responsibility but above all, the customer.”

In the North East Fastflow Pipeline Services - part of the rapidly expanding Fastflow Group - will provide services to almost 2.7 million people, while in Essex - where there are approximately 1.5 million customers – a recruitment drive is now underway to engage 40-50 new employees.

Fastflow was created by North East Water in 1990.  Recalling the early days, when his office was little more than a cupboard in the former Newcastle and Gateshead Water Company building, Barry added:  “There was me, a telephone and a business plan and that was about it.

“If you had asked me then if I would still be here almost a quarter of a century later I would have said ‘no way.’  But being part of something which has grown and changed so much has been both exciting and challenging and I’m delighted to be taking on this new role at a time when the group is so well placed.”

Lisa Newman, Henderson Insurance Brokers

Henderson Insurance Brokers on Teesside has appointed a specialist in rural and farm insurance to meet the needs of its increasing customer base in this sector.

Lisa Newman, who has 15 years’ experience in the insurance industry, has joined the firm, based at Preston Farm Business Park, Stockton, as an account executive specialising in rural matters.

Jonathan Willett, a director of Henderson Insurance Brokers on Teesside, said: “Lisa is well-known and respected in the rural and farming community in the area and has an in-depth knowledge of all aspects of farm, rural and business insurances.

“Henderson Insurance Brokers is pleased to have secured Lisa for this role as her energy, knowledge, enthusiasm and top-class communications skills will make her a great addition to our farming and rural insurance team.”

Joan Evans, Finest Properties

Corbridge-based Finest Properties, an independent Estate Agency based in Corbridge, has appointed Joan Evans as sales and lettings manager.

Specialising in heritage and lifestyle properties, and with offices in Northumberland and Cumbria, Finest Properties are a relative “newcomer” to the industry. 

Having worked in the property industry for the past 27 years, most recently in a similar role within the Corbridge area, Joan brings with her a wealth of a wealth of knowledge and experience. 

Joan first became interested in the property industry whilst selling her family home a number of years ago and took up her first position shortly afterward.  

Joan said, “I am delighted to be joining Finest Properties.  This is a very prestigious company within an exciting and rewarding industry and I am looking forward to working with and supporting the entire team to further develop both the lettings and residential side of the business." 

Erika Marshall, Nifco

Automotive manufacturer Nifco is moving its marketing up a gear with the appointment of a new communications manager.

The Eaglescliffe based business has added experienced marketing professional Erika Marshall to its team, as it looks to build on its growing reputation as one of the region’s most successful businesses. 

The company appointed Erika, 33, this month and hopes that she will set a template for marketing that can be replicated by Nifco around the world.  

She joins the company from Reef Subsea, where she held a fixed term contract as their marketing manager for nine months.  Prior to that, Erika worked as marketing manager at ThyssenKrupp Access for more than four years.

She said: “I had followed Nifco’s progress over the years in the press, and it was always clear that it was a company that had real ambition and one that was going places.  I was really keen to be part of that.  

“I’m really excited to get stuck in, and to help shape Nifco’s communications both internally and externally.  It is clear already that it will be a great company to be part of."

Tim Carter (front), with Andrew Wilkinson (left) and Jonathan Simpson (right) (Picture by: Keith Taylor)

Jonathan Simpson & Andrew Wilkinson, Connect Property North East

Directors Jonathan Simpson and Andrew Wilkinson have joined forces with company founder Tim Carter to create Connect Property North East (CPNE), the largest specialist niche commercial agency practice to serve the Tees Valley, County Durham and North Yorkshire.

Andrew joins Connect Property having spent 18 years at Sanderson Weatherall as partner heading up the retail and investment departments in the Teesside office, having transacted more than £100m of investment sales and acquisitions in his career to date. 

Andrew has advised on most of the region’s shopping centres and undertaken high street lettings for clients including the significant retail regeneration projects at the Pavilion Shopping Centre, Thornaby and most recently Billingham Town Centre. 

Jonathan joins having spent eight years with Sanderson Weatherall, as partner heading up the commercial agency division in Teesside. Previously Jonathan was an associate partner working at GVA in the national industrial and logistics division.

The three chartered surveyors, with more than 45 years’ combined experience between them, already boast an enviable list of clients that include City & Northern, M7, UK Land Estates, St Modwen, LaSalle Investment Management, Dunedin, Opus Land, South Street Capital and Mandale.

Connect Property North East has most recently been instructed by new owner Clearbell on the £25m Lingfield mixed use scheme in Darlington where they will provide occupational and agency advice.

Jonathan said: “I am excited to be a part of this new venture, as my ambition has always been to be the master of my own destiny. To be able to do this with two long terms friends and colleagues makes this extra special.

"I believe that the timing is perfect and the three of us have complementary skills to enable Connect Property North East to offer an unrivalled service in the industrial, office, retail and investment sectors.”

Andrew added: “I take great comfort from the fact that the three of us have survived one of the toughest recessionary periods by continually adapting to market conditions and delivering sound property advice, derived from our personal experiences. 

"I am fired up by the opportunities, which lie ahead and am confident that our rounded team approach will allow us to continue to provide a first rate and professional service through Connect Property North East.”

Scott Bayne, Deloitte

Business advisory firm Deloitte has announced that Scott Bayne has been promoted to partner in its Yorkshire and North East Corporate Audit practice.

Having spent 10 years working in the North West, Scott has moved to the North East to support and drive the significant growth opportunities in the North East market. His diverse experience of advising both owner-managed businesses and main market listed groups, together with his manufacturing industry focus and his advisory experience of capital markets transactions will provide increased strength and depth to Deloitte’s Audit practice. Scott, a partner in Corporate Audit, said: “I am delighted to have joined Deloitte’s North East practice. Yorkshire and the North East consistently differentiates itself from other regions for its tenacity, dynamism and entrepreneurial spirit and I am truly excited to be part of the local Deloitte team and to support them in driving growth.“ His appointment as a partner comes at a time when Deloitte expects the region to see an increase in business confidence and activity, as Martin Jenkins, practice senior partner for Yorkshire and the North East, explained: “With access to existing and new sources of capital improving, and confidence levels on the rise, we expect that 2015 will offer significant new opportunities in the North East. Specifically we expect to see an increase in activity in sectors such as manufacturing and Scott’s background will prove to be invaluable to clients and Deloitte as the year develops.“   Simon Manning, partner and head of Corporate Audit for Yorkshire and the North East, added: “The extensive experience that Scott has brought to Yorkshire and North East has made a huge impact.  His drive and energy, coupled with his advisory skills are significant assets to the firm in the region and his client track record shows how highly his advice is valued and sought after.“

Michael Fallis-Taylor, Pickerings Lifts

Provider of lift, maintenance and repair services, Pickerings Lifts, has announced a new senior appointment to its Stockton-based head office that will see the business strengthen its ‘service sales’ offering.   

Having been promoted from within the business, Pickerings’ former National Service Sales Manager, Michael Fallis-Taylor, will step up to the role of service sales and marketing director.

Having gained more than 20 years of industry experience across a variety of sectors, the move will see Fallis-Taylor growing and developing Pickerings’ service sales business streams. 

Michael Fallis-Taylor said: “Pickerings Lifts is a market leader with a rich 160-year heritage. That means a combination of experience and innovation, and as such, this is a role I’m extremely excited about. 

"I am passionate about building partnerships throughout the service industry and continuing to deliver an excellence of service and maintenance to our customer base”. 

Ian Bowers, managing director at Pickerings Lifts said: “Michael is a strategic thinking leader with excellent communication skills, high levels of energy, integrity, enthusiasm and determination."

Marketing communications agency, The Write Angle, has snapped up two new recruits as part of a long-term strategy to provide its growing client roster with a full-service integrated offer.

The Chorley-based agency welcomes Ryan Gibson and Helen Wardley as account managers from Manchester agencies, Tangerine and SLG Marketing Ltd, respectively.

As part of Tangerine’s B2B team, Ryan delivered award-winning integrated marketing campaigns for national and international brands such as ARI Fleet, Barbour ABI (part of UBM), law firm DWF and Environmental Scientifics Group.

Helen, who was born in Chorley, brings a wealth of experience providing integrated marketing solutions for some of the UK’s most well-known trade brands, including Polypipe, Rada (part of the Kohler Group) and Sika.

Both Ryan and Helen will work alongside The Write Angle’s new director, Tracy Archer, to drive the agency in a bold new direction.

Tracy commented: “Recruiting talent in such a competitive industry is extremely difficult, and to find people with the right blend of PR, brand, social and content marketing skills is an even harder task. That’s why we’re thrilled to have found two at once!

“The fact that high-calibre candidates such as this have made the move out of big city agencies is a huge testament to The Write Angle’s long-term vision, which really boils down to bringing brand stories to life no matter what the channel.“

Karen Wilson, Alternative Futures Group

A new managing director has been appointed by North West charity Alternative Futures Group (AFG).

Karen Wilson has more than 15 years’ experience at chief executive and director level with her most recent role as executive director of nursing at North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust. 

Every year, Alternative Futures Group, whose head office is in Prescot on Merseyside, supports more than 1200 people with learning disabilities and mental health needs. This is achieved by providing around the clock support within the community, in peoples own homes or in one of eight specialist treatment and recovery centres.

Chief executive of AFG,Neil Campbell,  said: “Karen has the right skills to take AFG forward at a time of great change in the sector and help us deliver our vision.

“That vision and our values are focused on putting the people we support in control of their lives.

“Karen’s skills and experience and the talented team around her ensure we are well placed to continue providing a high level of support to our service users while at the same time continuing to be innovative and to invest in our employees.“

Catherine Paul, Designer Habitat

Manchester-based Designer Habitat – the kitchen and homewares product specialist – has appointed  former B&M buying manager, Catherine Paul, as it embarks on an ambitious recruitment drive.

The company sources and supplies functional, practical and innovative products suitable for the kitchen and home. Ranges are produced under the company’s two main brands – VonHaus and VonShef – both of which have been developed in-house at Designer Habitat’s head office in Manchester.

Mark Januszewski, CEO of Designer Habitat, said: “Catherine’s appointment is a major coup for Designer Habitat. She has a wealth of experience working with large, national retailers, in sourcing a wide range of products for multiple categories.

“We are set to grow our workforce by 50 per cent by the end of 2017. It’s our aim to be a go-to employer for talented individuals looking for the next step in a retail-focused workplace.“

Rob Bickerstaffe, Ludlow Wealth Management.

Rob Bickerstaffe joins the wealth management group as its 19th consultant and will be helping clients in the region to achieve financial peace of mind.  He will also be responsible for expanding the group’s high net worth individual client base in the Manchester, Cheshire and Lancashire regions as the firm hopes to reach £1billion of assets under advice within five years.

Rob, who lives in Bamford, Greater Manchester, will be working across the North West but will be based at Ludlow’s Blackburn office.

Rob said: “Ludlow has an excellent reputation in the region and a vision and ethos which sets it apart from other wealth management firms. It was this that impressed me combined with how the firm’s clients are at the centre of everything it does.

“The Ludlow philosophy, which is focused on helping clients achieve financial peace of mind enabling them to live their lives, also struck a chord with me. The prospect of working in a business that has a well-defined proposition placing it head and shoulders above the competition compelled me to join Ludlow.“

Tim Cornes,  Business Doctors

This month Cheshire businessman Tim Cornes will be joining Business Doctors, the support service for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs).

There are currently 42 Business Doctors operating throughout the UK. The network is geared to drive business growth, from strategies for sales and boosting profits, to advice for effective people management, accessing finance and acquiring other companies.

Rod Davies, the network’s co-founder, said: “We are delighted that we are still growing our presence in Cheshire.

"Tim joining the operation is giving us fantastic coverage across the county – a definite asset to the local business community.

“Each Business Doctor has proven proficiency, and is able to provide advice and support, based on real experience. Tim implicitly understands what business owners need and will give top class support, helping them grow and achieve their ambitions.“

Nick Hynes, Cheshire East Council 

Cheshire East Council has appointed a top commercial property expert to lead a key advisory panel to review and drive forward the redevelopment of Macclesfield town centre.

Nick Hynes, a chartered surveyor, spent 26 years as managing director of Macclesfield-based property company Magnus before leaving to set up his own consultancy business earlier this year.

Councillor Michael Jones, Leader of Cheshire East Council said: “I am delighted with the appointment of Nick Hynes. Getting a business leader of his calibre on board shows just what a high priority we are giving to the redevelopment of Macclesfield town centre.

“Nick, who was born and bred in Macclesfield and knows and loves the town as much as we do, is totally committed to making things happen so that we create a town centre fit for the 21st century.

“I have given Nick the remit to listen. We want him to get this right and make sure we listen to all opinions on the development and investment in Macclesfield Town Centre.“

The role as chair of the Macclesfield Design Board is not a full-time position and Mr Hynes will continue to provide strategic sales and leasing consultancy for Airport City Manchester.

Ian Gabrielides, Pickerings Lifts

Pickerings Lifts has announced a new senior appointment to its North West office in Manchester, that will see the company significantly grow and strengthen its heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) business stream. 

Ian Gabrielides joins the company with two decades’ experience gained at the cutting edge of the heating and cooling industry, working across both public and private sectors in a variety of senior positions. 

The new role will see him leading a multi-skilled team of engineers to help businesses across the country keep their heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems legally compliant and operationally efficient, as well as avoid costly, unplanned breakdowns and critical failures through effective maintenance regimes.

Ian Bowers, Managing Director at Pickerings Lifts said: “While our core business is lift maintenance and repair, in recent years we have diversified into new business streams with a great deal of success.

"HVAC is a growing area for us, and presents huge potential. Without a doubt, Ian is the right person to deliver this for us, and we’re extremely happy to be welcoming him to the team.“

Image source: Gronkca

Pen Heaven, a London-based luxury stationary ‘etailer’, was founded in 2008 by Keith Cole. Today, Keith’s son David (pictured right) runs the operation with a team of 10 digital experts at Hawthorn Retail Park. 

The business, which began and continues to grow exclusively online, offers unique personalisation and engraving services while also acting as an ecommerce platform for high-end pens and accessories. 

David told Bdaily about the benefits of running an exclusively online business and breaking into a niche market digitally. He said: "When we first decided to take the plunge and set up Pen Heaven, the idea of opening a physical store was quickly shelved. 

"These days, going online is essential rather than optional, and starting up entirely online means a fantastic opportunity to reach a wide audience, keep overheads to a minimum and ultimately, make faster profits. "

"Ten years ago, retail entrepreneurs would have to think about renting a physical shop in a prime location, designing the store, renovation costs, insurance, endless building work – all before even considering the task of hiring, training and paying staff. 

"We no longer have to do this. Now, a computer and some basic web expertise means anybody can start a business and make sales 24/7, 365 days a year, to any country in the world."

David boasts a wealth of knowledge about running an ecommerce business, and he believes this expertise is key to Pen Heaven’s success, he continued:

"Running a business exclusively online also means you have a lot more scope in terms of marketing, advertising and generally reaching as many customers as possible. 

"The crucial element about online is that it’s a marketing tool itself - you can use to really drive traffic to your site consistently. 

"Thanks to the wonder of Google, the key for us is search marketing, which means people who are looking for a product that we sell can find us instantly at the top of the Google search list. 

"Another great tool is PPC advertising, which means our site shows up on search pages immediately, but also allows us to test key word searches, headlines, prices and selling approaches."

He added: "If you’re an entrepreneur and you want to succeed, picking a niche means you’re going to bypass a lot of the competition you’d face with other approaches. 

"Being in a niche means people are already actively looking for the products you sell, which allows you to stand out among larger companies."

David has great faith in niche marketing, and Pen Heaven owes much of his success to his tactical online marketing strategy, he said: "Put simply, working in a niche market is easier, faster and often more profitable. In terms of marketing, you don’t need complex techniques. In a bigger market, you could spend hundreds of hours on SEO and backlinks and not get anywhere in Google, whereas you can do half of that in a niche market and quickly secure a top ranking. 

"You can start selling instantly. This also means future competitors will be put off. If they see you leading a niche market, chances are they’ll try and find something different entirely. 

"I think the key advantage though, is that by having a much more targeted marketing strategy, you can drive traffic to your website that is focused and have customers whose needs you can easily meet. It allows you to become an expert and a leader in what you do."

Nosh Healthy Kitchen, an independent healthy food restaurant, delivery and takeaway service, is set to open in Middlesbrough.

Opening at Central Point Business Centre, in Linthorpe Road, Nosh will initially employ six people.

The fitting out of the 1,100 sq ft, of ground floor retail space is reaching its final stages at the former Midland House building, which has been redeveloped by Linthorpe Developments.

Nosh Healthy Kitchen, which is being launched by father and son Shary and Jason Jahangir will serve nutritious, low fat, healthy food that remains tasty and interesting. It is due to open on March 29.

It will cater for vegans, vegetarians, those with gluten intolerance, sportsmen and those on other special diets. The cooking will use minimal oils and cream and other dairy products and non-meat protein dishes will be available.

The menu will also be seasonal, changing every few months and the business aims to use local suppliers where possible.

Shary, a chef with about 30 years’ experience in the UK and overseas, who has worked with Michelin starred chefs, including Raymond Blanc, will prepare the food for the new restaurant, which will have about 30 covers.

Shary said: “I chose Central Point for the location more than anything else. It’s in the centre of the town and we are right beside the University, so the passing trade is very good.

“There’s a lot of competition around us, which is actually good because it attracts people to this area, but we are doing something a bit different that will set us apart.’’

Geoff Hogg, of Linthorpe Developments, said: “It’s great for the local area that we have a new venture like Nosh Healthy Kitchen and I’m proud that the business has chosen Central Point.“

The Manchester Business and IP Centre (BIPC) will receive £45k in extra funding from the Department for Communities and Local Government, Arts Council England and The British Library.

The funding which will be used for additional outreach work and to help BIPC to continue to provide face-to-face advice to local entrepreneurs.

The funding will also help BIPC to continue to offer free access to a comprehensive collection of business and intellectual property databases and publications, including market research, company data and business news.

The Central Library Digital Demonstrator is another service available to businesses, offering a range of new technologies and equipment to support start-ups and small businesses, from videoconferencing to 3D printing.

Councillor Rosa Battle, Executive Member for Culture and Leisure, Manchester City Council, said: “The Business & IP Centre at Central Library is an important resource for local people who have their own small business, or even the germ of an idea with the potential to grow into a business.

“Having access to the best possible information supports our budding entrepreneurs as they look to grow their own successful enterprises.“

The first tenants are now on site and bringing new jobs to the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership site at  Warton.

Global management consultancy, technology and outsourcing giant Accenture has opened a North West office at the Enterprise Zone to specialise in providing business systems.

They are joined by worldwide specialists in calibration and asset management services, Trescal, which works with global leaders in industries such as aerospace, automotive and defence.

The two companies have brought a total of 22 jobs to the Enterprise Zone - 15 with Accenture and seven with Trescal – with the potential for more growth in the future.

Edwin Booth, chair of the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, said: “The combination of excellent location, high-quality infrastructure and proximity to Lancashire’s world-class advanced engineering and manufacturing sector is a very attractive offer, particularly when combined with business rate relief, and I am sure that these two multi-national companies will be the first of many to be attracted to the Enterprise Zone.

"The Lancashire Enterprise Partnership exists to create the right condition for business to thrive in the county and the Enterprise Zone is a key part of that work.

“We expect the Enterprise Zone, over its three sites in Warton, Samlesbury and Blackpool, to create 6,000 jobs directly, with a further 5,000 to 7,000 in the local supply chain. The Enterprise Zone will form a centre of excellence for high technology manufacturing, generating wealth-creating benefits for the whole county."

Andrew Roberton, Senior Manager, Aerospace and Defence, Accenture, said: "Accenture has recently opened a regional office within the Warton site, to serve clients in the North West region.

“This supplements Accenture’s existing Manchester and Newcastle offices to enhance the capability to support clients in the region. The Warton office is initially expected to have a capacity of up to 20 staff, providing a range of management consulting and technology services to clients in the region.

“The Warton site also provides the opportunity to grow the size of the facility over the coming years."

Image source: Gronkca

Pen Heaven, a London-based luxury stationery ‘etailer’, was founded in 2008 by Keith Cole. Today, Keith’s son David (pictured right) runs the operation with a team of 10 digital experts at Hawthorn Retail Park. 

The business, which began and continues to grow exclusively online, offers unique personalisation and engraving services, while also acting as an ecommerce platform for high-end pens and accessories. 

David told Bdaily about the benefits of running an exclusively online business and breaking into a niche market digitally. He said: "When we first decided to take the plunge and set up Pen Heaven, the idea of opening a physical store was never even seriously considered.“ 

"These days, going online is essential rather than optional, and starting up entirely online means a fantastic opportunity to reach a wide audience, keep overheads to a minimum and ultimately, make faster profits."

"Ten years ago, retail entrepreneurs would have to think about renting a physical shop in a prime location, designing the store, renovation costs, insurance, endless building work – all before even considering the task of hiring, training and paying staff. 

"We no longer have to do this. Now, a computer and some basic web expertise means anybody can start a business and make sales 24/7, 365 days a year, to any country in the world."

David boasts a wealth of knowledge about running an ecommerce business, and he believes this expertise is key to Pen Heaven’s success, he continued: "Running a business online provides access to a much wider audience, not just those who happen to walk past your store during normal business hours”

"The crucial element about online is that it’s a marketing tool itself - you can use your website to drive high quality traffic at any time of the day from anywhere in the world.“

"Thanks to the wonder of Google, the key for us is search marketing, which means people who are looking for a product that we sell can find us instantly at the top of the Google search list. 

"Another great tool is PPC advertising, which means our site shows up on search pages immediately. It also allows us to test keyword searches, headlines and marketing strategies."

He added: "If you’re an entrepreneur and you want to succeed, picking a niche means you’re going to bypass a lot of the competition you’d face with other approaches. 

"Being in a niche is ideal for a smaller company because it allows you to become an expert in what you do, meaning you can compete against anyone in the market. And having access to a huge pool of online browsers means there is no shortage of potential customers”

David has great faith in niche marketing, and Pen Heaven owes much of its success to his tactical online marketing strategy, he said: "Put simply, working in a niche market generates quicker and more profitable results for smaller companies. In a bigger market, you could spend hundreds of hours on SEO and backlinks and not get anywhere on Google, whereas you can do half of that in a niche market and make much more of an impact.

"You can start selling instantly. This also means future competitors will be put off. If they see you leading a niche market, chances are they’ll try and find something different entirely. 

"I think the key advantage though, is that by having a much more targeted marketing strategy, you can drive traffic to your website that is focused, and have customers whose needs you can easily meet.“ 

Muse Developments is to begin the restoration of an important historic building in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.

The Mackie Mayor, a Grade II Listed building on Swan Street, is the only remaining fully intact building from the former Smithfield market. Opened in 1858, it was originally used as a meat market, later diversifying to also sell fish and fresh produce.

In 1974 the markets were relocated to East Manchester and the Smithfield complex was closed. Since then the building has had some sporadic temporary uses, but it has proved difficult to find a suitable longer term use, and the building has been empty since the early 1990’s.

Following receipt of planning and listed building consent, Muse, in partnership with Manchester City Council, has appointed contractor Galliford Try to undertake a range of works aimed at making the structure of the building wind and watertight. This includes installing a new section of roof, replacement slates and new windows, as well as internal refurbishment and decoration.

The building is a solid sandstone wall structure with an open central atrium, supporting cast iron frame and mezzanine first floor level. The works will restore and emphasise the architecturally significant features of the building such as the very ornate cast iron columns and beams that form the structure of the building internally.

Wes Erlam, development director at Muse Developments, said: “Having concluded the development of phase six of the Smithfield project, One Smithfield Square, it was always our intention to continue on to the Mackie Mayor. We have now reached that stage and look forward to the first step in bringing the building back to its former glory. It is an integral part of our Smithfield regeneration project, and its restoration will represent the final piece of the jigsaw.

“Bringing derelict listed buildings back into use is a challenging process and the idea is that by undertaking the first stage of its renovation we will effectively create a blank canvas through which the building’s unique charm will shine through. By taking away some of the issues and uncertainties about the building, we’re confident that its rich history and special characteristics will have considerable appeal to owners, investors and occupiers who are looking for something that little bit different in this excellent Northern Quarter location.“

Councillor Jeff Smith, Executive Member for Housing and Regeneration, at Manchester City Council, said: "The Northern Quarter is a key element of the regeneration of Manchester city centre and I’m glad that this heritage building is being restored, paving the way for its long term re-use as part of the successful Smithfield redevelopment."

Once the first stage is complete, Muse will be able to market the building to a range of potential occupiers. Subject to planning the building could accommodate a range of uses such as leisure, retail or commercial.

The first stage works are due to start at the end of March with a view to completing in September.

Muse’s award-winning Smithfield regeneration scheme has delivered more than 350 apartments, two hotels and over 30,000 sq ft of ground floor space over the past 13 years and has been a catalyst for the wider revitalisation of the Northern Quarter. Its sixth phase, a ten-storey residential building comprising 77 one, two and three bedroom apartments, has recently completed.

Northumbria University students turned entrepreneurs, Rachel Horton, Alice Webster and Poppy Brookes, have launched their own business, CleanShakes.

Identifying a gap in the market for a nutritious drink aimed at those who want to live a better and healthy lifestyle, the enterprising trio are aiming to produce a shake that will be as ‘clean’ as possible.

Whilst the product is still in development, the business is already attracting interest from high end premium retailers.

The team, who are studying on Newcastle Business School’s Entrepreneurial Business Management (EBM) Programme, have secured funding from two external bodies to progress their business idea and will be launching the product later this year. The £12k worth of funding has come from Innovation Strategy Board and Science City.

Rachel, 29, from Newcastle, said: “The financial support we have received has allowed us to take our idea and make it a reality.

“Our current focus is on utilising innovative microbiological and manufacturing processes to ensure we maintain the nutritional quality of our product, whilst also reducing the need to process the product. We want to make our shakes as clean as we can so we are working with microbiologists and food scientists to make this happen.

“Our message is that CleanShakes is a premium, tasty product, something that is good for you whilst actively tasting good. It’s a simple concept - but it is really difficult to achieve the right balance when creating a new food product, so we have teamed up with experts to do just that.“

There is also an environmental aspect to CleanShakes as all decisions the team make, from the design and supply chain to the ingredients used, are being made with consideration to their carbon footprint.

The young entrepreneurs are now focussed on developing the CleanShakes brand.

Rachel explained: “At the moment we are testing the concept and getting to know our potential customer base, which means spending a lot of time out in the field speaking to a wide variety of people, and feedback has been great with many saying they would like to buy CleanShakes products when they are ready for market.

“We are experimenting and working out how the business is going to profitably function whilst building for growth – this is a huge focus for us and it is all about learning.

“Our mentality is less about in-depth strategic planning and more about thoughtful action in which we learn and test. What we do know is that there is a distinct market need and CleanShakes is our response to that.“

The EBM course at Northumbria is innovative in that it promotes a team-based approach to learning in which participants influence what, how and when they learn. Students set up and manage their own business enterprise which gives them the opportunity to earn while studying.

As well as being attractive to those who have ambitions to be their own boss, there is also the appeal of career development as students learn a variety of skills and competencies which would make them a valuable addition to any organisation.

Rachel added: “The course is very self-directed but we have access to academics and industry professionals to support us and makes us feel empowered. As we have that guidance we are more likely to take risks and grab at opportunities we might not get if we were on our own with a new business.“

Tony Blackwood, EBM Programme Director at Newcastle Business School, at Northumbria University, said: “The programme, which adopts a very innovative approach to learning, is an example of our forward looking thinking at Northumbria and the success we have seen in the first two years is hugely encouraging.

“CleanShakes is an idea with a lot of potential and the students have really excelled under this different educational experience. They are taking responsibility for their own learning and are rising to the challenge of running their own business.“

The survival of start-up businesses in the Humber have just been given a lifeline as loans of £1,000 to £25,000 are now available through the Government supported Start-Up Loans scheme.

New businesses in the region in Hull, East Yorkshire (including Scarborough) and north and north-east Lincolnshire, as well as those that have been operational for less than two years, can now have access to a Start-Up Loan.

Since the Start-Up Loans scheme was introduced by the Chamber Acorn Fund in 2013, funding assistance has been given to more than 220 businesses, 17 of which have had the full £25,000 at a rate of 6% per annum.

The scheme - created by Lord Young of Graffham, the Enterprise Advisor to David Cameron - is available to anyone over the age of 18, who is a resident in the UK with a valid visa for the full period of the loan, and with a practical business project, or a business younger than 24 months.

Craig Simpson, contracts manager at the Acorn Chamber Fund on Beverley Road, Hull, said: “Any business sector can get this, it is not linked to job creation and we offer free business mentoring to help you get started.

“The variety of businesses we have worked with is vast, from chimney sweeps to Internet application development and everything in between.“

Hull local Mally Welburn presented the concept of a land train tour of the historic buildings in Hull’s Old Town whilst taking visitors to and from the city centre to the Deep.

Mr Simpson added: “With the help of a Start Up loan the Hull Land Train venture has quickly become a significant success and has attracted further local investment,“ said Craig.“

Two experienced scaffolders from North Lincolnshire, Gordon Ogilvie and Paul Woods, have also successfully set up their own business using the Start-Up loan programme.

Mr Simpson further commented: “After a relatively short period Clearview Scaffolding has gained lucrative contracts and is well on the way to achieving their target of having 10 staff.“

Manchester-based recruitment firm, Sellick Partnership, has signed a new £3.75m re-finance deal to support its latest growth plans.

The package will see Sellick Partnership bring all of its banking facilities under one roof, with Invoice Discounting facilities moved to RBS Invoice Finance and its day to day business banking accounts handled by NatWest.

The decision follows the company’s earlier announcement to open a seventh office in London this spring and to achieve an increase in targeted profits of more than £1m in the next year.

The Invoice Discounting facility the company has secured with RBS Invoice Finance is set to provide the company with additional working capital during this period of growth, freeing up cash from the company’s sales ledger to support its rapid growth.

Established in 2002, Sellick Partnership is a leading provider of expert recruitment services across the UK. Operating primarily across the financial and legal sectors, the company has branches nationwide including offices in Leeds, Manchester, Midlands, Newcastle, East Midlands and Liverpool. In January, Sellick opened its seventh office, based in London.

Jo Sellick, managing director of Sellick Partnership said: “We have been experiencing real growth over the last 18 months as both the interim and permanent markets within the finance and legal sectors have seen an upsurge in demand.

“This increase in revenue has generated growth for Sellick Partnership, and as a result we have got significant plans for the future – firstly with an office opening in London this spring to satisfy the increased demand we have seen from candidates and clients in the south east.“

Jonathan Wilson, head of Business Development at RBS Invoice Finance said: “Sellick Partnership has a top rated management team that has impressed us and we are pleased to be working alongside the business and supporting its growth objectives.“

Guy Boxall, Relationship Director at NatWest added: “We are delighted to provide Sellick Partnership with funding facilities which enable the SME to continue forward with its business growth aspirations. The firm continues to go from strength to strength and we wish it every success for the future.“    

As the busy dance festival and competition season approaches, a life-long dancer has launched her own business in Barnsley in hopes of attracting hundreds of new customers.

Kerry Archer, who has been dancing since the age of three, has opened her specialised store, Dance Zone, on Sheffield Road, which sells outfits, shoes and accessories for youth dancers in all styles including ballet, tap, modern jazz, street dance, cheerleading as well as gymnastics.

The new shop owner has purposely opened the doors to Dance Zone to coincide with the hectic dancing season when Barnsley’s 25-plus dance schools enter a range of competitions throughout the region.

kerry said: “In the past many local people have travelled to Rotherham or Batley to buy dancewear but I am now providing a new shop in Barnsley which they can come to, plus an online service through my Facebook page and website too.“

Smartstart, a Barnsley business start-up programme that offers free business advice, guidance and workshops, supported Kerry throughout the process of setting up Dance zone, similar to the assistance the scheme has provided for more than 200 businesses in the region over the last two years.

Smartstart is managed by Barnsley Business and Innovation Centre (BBIC), at Wilthorpe, working in partnership with Barnsley Council.

Kerry added: “I know and understand my market after a lifelong love of dance and also teaching dance since I was 18, but I didn’t have any idea about running my own business.

“The Smartstart programme, its mentoring and support, has been fantastic for sorting me out with all that side of things. The programme has made it possible for me to realise my dream and I am now determined to make success of the business.“

Kerry, a dance teacher at the Jill Brookes School of Dance in Barnsley, has already gained a contract to stock the popular Pineapple dancewear range in store from this summer.

James Herbert, BBIC’s Smartstart business development manager, said: “Kerry has combined her passion for dance and excellent knowledge of the local dance scene with her new-found business skills and confidence to launch a new Barnsley business. She knows her customers and her products.

“Through Smartstart we’ve given her advice in matters such as opening a business account and setting up a Streamline chip and pin machine.

“Building a new business is all about having personal vision and ambition; developing the necessary business acumen and putting in the hard work. Kerry has the perfect combination of these and we wish her every success.“

Lancaster University Management School’s Centre for Family Business is to launch a new programme to support the family business sector, off the back of research carried out by the university.

71 per cent of UK SMEs are family businesses and they employ more than 9.2 million people, contributing £1.1 trillion to the UK economy.

The 10-month-long programme is aimed at current or future leaders of family firms.

Taking into account the complexity of the family business dynamic the programme focuses participants on problems within their business and helping them to move the business forward with input from their peers.

The programme will also explore ideas such as how to go about bringing in external management teams as alternatives to family members to run the business.

Jacqui Jackson, head of family business engagement at Lancaster University Management School, said: “Family businesses have unique goals that stem from the influence of family and they also have distinctive strategies and managerial practices.

"Sometimes, these distinctive traits correspond to unique strengths and competitive advantages, but they can also cause severe organisational disruption that can cause significant problems within family businesses.

“Lancaster University’s new Leadership for Family Business programme aims to support decision-makers in family firms so they are prepared to meet those challenges.“

The programme, which has begun recruiting, will begin in October this year.

Durham-born entrepreneur Jo Cameron has purchased Colleagues on Tap from founder Jayne Graham and has ambitious plans to grow the company exponentially both in the UK and abroad.

Colleagues on Tap, founded in the North East in 2010, helps home-based small business owners come together on a regular basis in an office environment for the day. Once there, they are able to share experiences, peer mentor one another and combat the isolation of working alone.

Demand for Colleagues on Tap has seen it grow from a single venue monthly meet-up to a community of 300+ businesses coming together at nine venues across County Durham, Northumberland, Teesside and Tyne & Wear.

Jo, from Sacriston, bought Colleagues on Tap having seen at close quarters the positive impact it had on her own company, Remote HR Solutions.

She said: “In the North East alone there are 102,785 sole traders - that equates to 74.8% of businesses in the region. These entrepreneurs work on their own and can benefit from the community that is built by structured co-working days.

“I didn’t realise until I joined Colleagues on Tap how powerful that community can be in developing business opportunities, providing peer support, and combatting the isolation of working on your own.“

Jo, who has lived and worked in Australia, plans to increase membership in the North East before rolling out Colleagues on Tap across the UK.

The business already has an established Associates scheme, of which Jo was one prior to buying the company. Entrepreneurs with Associate status can set up and host co-working days in their area under the well-known Colleagues on Tap brand.

Jo said: “Colleagues on Tap has a proven growth model, similar to franchising, which enables me to further expand the business within the region. When you look at the fact that there are 3,965,775 sole traders operating nationally you get an idea of the potential of this business.

“Once you look abroad it becomes a mind-blowing opportunity which is my ultimate aim. I have strong links in Australia and America and this is an export opportunity I am eager to take to those countries.“

In addition to running her two businesses, Jo is also an associate lecturer and business mentor at her alma mater, the University of Sunderland.

Jayne Graham, who came up with the idea of Colleagues on Tap five years ago after working at home herself for many years, decided to sell the business to concentrate on her coaching and consultancy practice, 20:20 Consulting.

She said: “Colleagues on Tap has made such a difference to the small business sector in the North East. It’s now ready for expansion and Jo’s the perfect person to drive it forward into its next phase of development.  

“I firmly believe that the millions of people who have made the leap to work for themselves shouldn’t always need to work alone and Colleagues on Tap is the ideal solution.“

A £15m award to Brunel University London from the UK government will unlock a further £62m of private sector support to span the gap that currently prevents lab-based innovations becoming casting industry practice.

The funding will enable a second phase of the new Advanced Metal Casting Centre (AMCC) to scale-up processes and innovations that work in the laboratory but fail to achieve their potential on the factory floor.

Prof Zhongyun Fan’s successful proposal aims to speed up industrial implementation by providing evidence of successful transition to the demands of factory-scale production.

The funding will complete the AMCC’s essential range of factory-level metal casting/processing facilities and establish critical supporting research facilities for developing advanced metallic materials, as well as underpin component performance testing and create a suite for process modelling and simulation.

The new centre will conduct high quality research on nucleation, liquid metal engineering, the development of advanced materials and more efficient casting/processing technologies.

The long-term intention is to establish a National Metals Research Park on Brunel’s campus, further accelerating the industrial take-up of new technologies. 

Claire Thompson, Mercury Taxis

The marketing team at Sheffield’s Mercury Taxis has filled a key position with the promotion of Claire Thompson to marketing manager, her former role as marketing manager has now been filled by Dawn Goodwin.

Claire, who previously worked for Northern Rock for ten years, began her career as a customer service advisor in the mortgage department and then became a qualified Mortgage advisor. After receiving several customer care awards, she became the firm’s customer contact manager in charge of resolving complaints.

Dermot Griffiths, general manager of Mercury Taxis , said: “Not only will Claire and Dawn be promoting businesses through our offers card, they will also be taking a lead role in coordinating three big fundraisers for our charity of the year, St Luke’s Hospice, a cause close to our heart who help people right across the region.

"Last year, as a company last year we raised over £10,000 and with this team’s help, we hope to break last year’s record at our ever-popular annual Golf Day in August.“

Corinne Travis, Knight Frank

The Leeds office of global property consultancy Knight Frank has boosted its valuation team with the recent appointment of Corinne Travis

Corinne, who has a Masters in Property Management and Development from Nottingham Trent University, previously worked for Sanderson Weatherall in Leeds, where she spent six years in their Valuation Services and Corporate Recovery divisions. She also spent a year on a part-time secondment to NatWest in Rotherham.

Paul Hallam, head of the Valuations team in Leeds, said: “Corinne is a valuable addition to our team. She will be undertaking valuations of commercial property across all sectors and her expertise and experience will help with the continued expansion of the department.“

Commenting on her new role, Corinne stated: “The chance to join Knight Frank’s reputable and award-winning team in Leeds was too good to miss. These are exciting times for the property market in Yorkshire.

"Knight Frank is the perfect place to progress my career and capitalise on the many opportunities out there”.

Colin Booth OBE,  Leeds City College

Colin Booth OBE has been appointed chief executive of Leeds City College, which is one of the country’s largest college groups.

The appointment was made following the current chief executive and Principal Peter Roberts’s decision to retire after six years in the position.

Following a stint as Vice Principal at Newcastle College, Colin was hired as Principal and CEO of Barnsley College and drove the College to an Ofsted rating of outstanding, doubling turnover and delivering a financial performance - among the best in the college sector.

Colin has been appointed chief executive due to his efforts making strong contributions at local, regional, and national level to the furtherance of education including holding the positions: Chair of the One Barnsley Local Strategic Partnership, Director of the Wellspring Multi Academy Schools Trust, Chair of the Sheffield City Region Principals’ Group, Representative on the regional European Structural & Investment Funds (ESIF) Committee, Board member for the Association of Colleges (AoC) and Chair of its Finance & General Purposes Committee.

Dr Shaid Mahmood, Chair of the Leeds City College Board of Governors, said: “We have developed a vibrant and ambitious College Group with great potential for the future.

"Following high levels of interest in the post we sought an exceptional leader from a strong cross sector field of candidates that will harness the talents of our staff and meet the Board’s aspirations for the learners, the communities, and the employers we serve.  

“The Board looks forward to working with Colin as he leads the Leeds City College Group through its next exciting phase of development.  

"The Board also wishes to place on record its sincere thanks to Peter Roberts for his inspirational leadership of Leeds City College, from its inception in 2009 to its current position as one of the country’s largest and most forward thinking College Groups.“

Steve Blacker, KPMG

KPMG have boosted its Innovation Reliefs and Incentives Group across the North, Scotland and Midlands with the appointment of new Associate Partner, Steve Blacker.

With 15 years of advising businesses on their tax matters, the last nine of which he has specialised in government sponsored R&D related reliefs within Deloitte, Steve will now be advising KPMG clients to ensure they leverage the most value from their innovative activities.

Joining a national Innovation Reliefs and Incentives group of 60, including a team based in Leeds headed by director Graham Steele. This growing practice works with Yorkshire businesses across all industry sectors, with a particular focus on manufacturing, food production, energy and digital technology, generating millions of pounds of savings each year.

Commenting on his new role, KPMG Associate Partner Steve Blacker said: “The team here supports clients throughout their development lifecycle, from the genesis of a concept and securing funding for its development into a prototype unit, process or system, through to the scale up to full production levels and the resolving of associated technical challenges and finally the patenting of technologies. It’s undoubtedly an exciting area of commerce in which to support enterprising businesses.

“Our investment in specialists with significant experience means KPMG has a lot of success in not only working with clients at the start of planning for their innovative activities but also in reviewing R&D claims prepared in-house or by other advisors and identifying areas of R&D activity and costs that have been overlooked, often leading to significant claim enhancements and greater cashback.“

Andrew Cragg, Langleys Solicitors

Senior associate solicitor in the medical law team at Langleys Solicitors, York, Andrew Cragg, has become an accredited member of the Action Against Medical Accidents (AvMA) Specialist Clinical Negligence Panel.

AvMA is the UK charity for patient safety and justice and provides advice and support to people affected by medical accidents. Some of the charities operations include referring people to its own panel of specialist clinical negligence solicitors.

The charity also wants to ensure that anyone with a concern about medical treatment should seek advice from a firm, such as Langleys, with proven experience and knowledge in this field.

Andrew became a member after undergoing an intense application process in which he had to provide written evidence of his expertise and attend an interview.

He is already a member of the Law Society’s clinical negligence panel.

Sally-Ann Robinson, the head of the medical law team at Langleys and also a member of the AvMA and Law Society clinical negligence panels, said:  “Andrew’s achievement further demonstrates the strength and depth of our medical law team which not only includes specialist solicitors but an in-house nurse as well.“

Commenting on the appointment, Andrew added:  “I’m delighted to have met the criteria for AvMA panel membership – it’s further recognition of the very specialist field in which I work and I look forward to supporting clients through the AvMA referral process.“

Aberfield Communications, QHotels

QHotels, the AA Hotel Group of the Year, has appointed the Leeds-based Aberfield Communications to handle PR for the brand as well as a number of its 27 four and five-star hotels across the UK.

The appointment for Aberfield follows a six-way pitch process and the PR agency has been requested to drive brand awareness in the conference and events sector, as well as providing support to the individual hotels.

QHotels was named Hotel Group of the Year 2014-15 in the prestigious AA Hospitality Awards, and it has also been named Number One Large Group by VenueVerdict.

Claire Rowland, director of marketing at QHotels, said: “We’re really looking forward to working with Aberfield. They demonstrated an impressive combination of strategic thinking and creativity that will help to differentiate QHotels across the conferencing, leisure and business markets.“

Tim Downs, director at Aberfield Communications, added: “It only takes a quick glance at some of the iconic hotel names that sit under the QHotels brand to understand why we’re so excited to be working with the group.

“We will be focusing on driving awareness of the brand within the highly competitive conferencing and events markets, but we’ll also be providing PR advice and support to individual hotels.“

Great Annual Savings, the South Tyneside-based business cost reduction company, was co-founded by Bradley Groves in 2012. Also serving as the company’s CEO, Bradley talks to Bdaily about expansion plans for 2015 and his personal affiliation with the North East.

Having enjoyed success at a number of different companies including: Blacks Leisure Group PLC, Caudwell Group and Euro Car Parts to name a few, Bradley has become a specialist in getting the best out of companies and ultimately improving their business.

Setting up Great Annual Savings, Bradley wanted to work with businesses to reduce their variable costs and ultimately save them money.

Becoming the first company in the region to receive a cash injection from the Santander Growth Capital fund, plans to expand the business are quickly accelerating.

Indeed, for Bradley, the deal with Santander is a real milestone in growing the company. He said: “Everyone is a winner as a result of this deal; our staff; our suppliers; and the North East economy because of the jobs we will be creating.

"Our customers are also set to benefit, as we will be offering an even wider range of business cost savings solutions which will be designed to complement our existing energy, water, telecoms, insurance and fire safety markets.

“We’ve doubled our headcount to 40 people but this year we’re now looking to have 120 to 150 people working for us as we grow”, says Bradley.

Bradley, originally from Easington, takes great pride in growing the business from from the North East. He said: “We want to be one of the fastest growing companies in the UK and ultimately to be the market leader.

“Getting back to the North East and running a business from here has always been an aspiration of mine and I’m very, very happy to be here.

“We’re a real fast growing success story with good people, creating jobs in the area and benefiting the local economy. It’s excellent.”

And when asked what advice he would give to others starting a business in the region, Bradley said: “You get what you put in. Yes you always need that element of luck but when opportunities present themselves you’ve got to go for them! If you can do that, work hard and treat people right you’re on the right path to success.”

Dr Jonathan Hague, Liverpool City Region’s Innovation Board

Unilever Open Innovation Vice President Dr Jonathan Hague is the new chair of the Liverpool City Region’s Innovation Board, responsible for driving the strategic development of the City Region’s Innovation sector, on behalf of the Liverpool City Region Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

Jon takes over from University of Liverpool Vice Chancellor, Sir Howard Newby who has chaired the Innovation Board since it was first formed in 2012.

The appointment comes as the Board is developing an Innovation Plan focused on an ambitious portfolio of activity to accelerate the development and competitiveness of Liverpool City Region’s economy.

Key projects already putting the City Region on the map include the recently announced £65m Materials Innovation Factory and Sensor City, one of only four University Enterprise Zones awarded by Government last year.

Dr Jon Hague, Unilever vice-president for Open Innovation, said: “Working collaboratively with innovation partners regionally, nationally and internationally, as we have demonstrated in Unilever, is absolutely critical to helping all sectors of the economy to be more innovative. This is especially relevant for healthcare and life sciences, creative and digital, advanced manufacturing, water- & land-based biotechnology and sustainable energy.

“I am pleased to take the lead in developing a first class innovation ecosystem for the Liverpool City Region. We have a great foundation to build on and I am excited to be able to help take this important sector forward.“

Jon Nuttall, Medlock FRB

Oldham-based construction and fit-out firm Medlock FRB has recruited Jon Nuttall to the newly-created post of support service manager. Jon, who lives in Stockport, has joined Medlock from Wates Construction.

Medlock director Colin Drury said: “Jon will play a key role in the Medlock business. He will be responsible for our project aftercare service, ensuring our customers receive a speedy, consistent approach to dealing with any issues that may affect their business.

“Jon will work closely with our project teams and I am confident his proactive, positive and professional approach will ensure Medlock continues to provide a ‘best in class’ service to our clients.

“This is an entirely new role, which demonstrates our commitment to constantly innovate and improve our service to clients.“ Medlock FRB is a fit-out, refurbishment and build contractor which specialises in the leisure, hotel, commercial and retail sectors.

The company, which has 55 staff, operates throughout the UK, carrying out projects ranging in value from £10,000 to £2m for clients including Greene King, Whitbread, JD Wetherspoon and Caffé Nero Group.

Jon said: “I’m relishing my new role at Medlock and looking forward to using my experience and skills to help the business meet the needs of its growing client base.“

Bob Holt, Inprova Group

Inprova Group, a Warrington-based procurement outsourcing service company has appointed Bob Holt, who drove the expansion and stock market flotation of property repairs giant Mears Group plc, as chair.

Newly-formed Inprova Group, set up by the founders of Warrington purchasing firm CEL Procurement, will benefit from Bob Holt’s 40 years’ of business expansion experience. 

CEL Procurement, which has been providing procurement services since 1987, will be re-branded as Inprova in preparation for the Group’s ambitious growth strategy.

Paul Kennedy, Inprova Group chief executive said, “Typically procurement companies have a service based proposition or they offer complex IT systems. 

"Very few integrate the two effectively. Inprova will fill this gap by combining the strength of our existing technology platform alongside our category expertise and our experienced procurement resource. I think it’s a blended offer that will appeal right across our target markets.“

David Evans, Stephensons

Stephensons, national full service law firm, is today announcing the appointment of solicitor David Evans to its industrial disease department.

David, who will be based at the firm’s Bolton office, has over twenty years of experience in dealing with serious industrial diseases, as well as clinical negligence and personal injury cases.

Previously he spent 13 years with a Trade Union firm, focusing on industrial diseases, personal injury cases, accidents at work. 

David also has a background in Employers’ Liability, which he gained at Michael Halsall Solicitors and has been exposed to high value personal injury and clinical negligence claims at Paul Rooney solicitors.

Explaining his move to Stephensons, David said: “I was well aware of the firm and knew it had a stellar reputation.  I was interested in the range and complexity of cases that would be on offer.  It’s also a very friendly place to work at!“

Head of Personal Injury, Kate Sweeney, said: “We’re delighted that David has joined our team.  Industrial and Occupational diseases are a growing issue throughout the UK and many cases can be complex and detailed.  We’ve been growing in expertise in this area for a decade now and David’s experience is second to none.“

Richard Perkins, Greater Manchester’s Business Growth Hub

Greater Manchester’s Business Growth Hub has further strengthened its growth service team with the appointment of Richard Perkins as business growth advisor.

Richard has over 14 years’ experience in banking, specialising in the commercial arena. Prior to his current role, Richard has worked at a number of established banks, having started his career at NatWest before moving to RBS for over seven years, where he supported a range of SMEs from start-ups to charities and international businesses.

At Business Growth Hub, Richard will be providing advice to companies in the area of Oldham and Tameside. His responsibilities include assisting in areas of innovation, finance, international trade and operations.

Richard Perkins, growth advisor at Business Growth Hub, said: “Business Growth Hub has already been a fantastic partner for firms looking to expand in the Greater Manchester area. The Growth Hub is continually looking for SMEs which are looking to achieve their ambitious growth objectives and realise their full potential. I am incredibly excited to be joining the growth service team as it goes from strength to strength.“

Hilary Centeleghe, senior growth manager at Business Growth Hub, added: “Richard will be a fantastic addition to the team. With his extensive experience in banking, particularly his focus on SMEs, Richard already has a proven track record of providing businesses with advice right through the growth curve from start-up to disposal.“

Ruth Harrison & Matthew Hildon, Thoughtworks

Former chief marketing officer at Crabtree & Evelyn, Ruth Harrison, and former head of Mobile and Social at The Co-operative Group, Matthew Hildon, have joined software firm ThoughtWorks as director of retail strategy Europe and digital strategy consultant, respectively. 

They will be a part of the ThoughtWorks Manchester office as the group expands. The pair will be supporting clients based in the UK and Europe.

ThoughtWorks, whose head office is in Illinois in the US, aims to grow its retail business unit’s European revenues from $22m (£14.6m) to $40m (£26.5m) by 2016. In addition to Harrison and Hildon in Manchester, the company has hired five senior retail strategists in the UK overall.

Mark Collin, Head of ThoughtWorks Retail Europe said: "We work with some of the best known brands in retail and plan to expand our global footprint even further,

“For years clients have turned to us with their major opportunities and challenges and we have tackled them using technology. In a world where it is hard to separate strategy and business planning from technology dependency, we know the time is right to add to our ‘tech at the core’ capability."

Declan Maguire, Tom Henshaw & Chris Harcombe, Peel Airports

Peel Airports is strengthening its drive to bring more business to Durham Tees Valley Airport with a series of appointments in its Aviation Development Department.

Joining the team as Aviation Development manager is Declan Maguire who will have responsibility for both Durham Tees Valley and Doncaster Sheffield Airport with a remit to work with both new and existing airlines.

He joins Peel Airports from the leading aviation events and online company Routes where he held the post of Airline and Industry Relations Manager, responsible for European airline relations. 

Before joining Routes in 2012, Declan, who holds a BSc degree in Aviation Management, worked for both Virgin Atlantic and TUI Travel.

Declan said: “It’s a pleasure to join a team dedicated to the development of Durham Tees Valley and Doncaster Sheffield Airports. I look forward to becoming familiar with the communities they serve, promoting new route opportunities and developing relationships with airline operators.”

Other appointments include Tom Henshaw who moves from Aviation Analyst to become Aviation Development executive with responsibilities including the General and Business sectors, focussing on delivering growth at Durham Tees Valley.

Leading the team with overall responsibility for passenger, cargo and general/business aviation at both airports is Chris Harcombe, who has been head of Aviation Development with Peel Airports since 2013 and has been at the forefront of route development and engaging with airlines.

Chris said: “We’re delighted to have Declan joining us from one of the industry’s most influential companies and bringing a wide range of airline contacts.

"Tom Henshaw’s enhanced role is an important step forward in delivering the strategy set out in the Master Plan for Durham Tees Valley to focus on business and general aviation and follows our recent announcement of the introduction of new and more attractive tariffs for both aircraft based at the airport and visiting flyers."

Paul Cosgrove, Berghaus

North East outdoor brand Berghaus has confirmed the appointment of a new product manager for its most technical range of products.  Paul Cosgrove has joined the company to lead development in the Berghaus Extrem category and will oversee the development of the brand’s most advanced and innovative outdoor clothing and equipment.

Paul Cosgrove has been working in the outdoor industry for 15 years.  He is moving to Berghaus from Montane, where he was head of marketing and product.

Richard Leedham, Berghaus brand president, said: “Paul has an excellent reputation in the outdoor industry and is very well qualified to develop Berghaus’ Extrem range.  He’s an active user of outdoor gear himself, so he has extensive understanding of what makes a product work.  

Paul will be part of a great team and with his new colleagues, I am certain that he will deliver even better ranges to carry the famous Berghaus Extrem branding.”  

Paul Cosgrove added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me to join one of the iconic outdoor brands.  The Berghaus Extrem range already has an outstanding reputation and I am looking forward to working with a formidable team to enhance that and create something very special.”

Emma Tolley, Thorn Baker

Emma Tolley has joined Newcastle-based Thorn Baker to lead the company’s ambitious strategy of increasing staff numbers across the UK over the next five years.

Emma joins the recruitment firm as talent attraction manager with the task of building Thorn Baker’s nationwide team with talented staff and managers to lead the company into its next period of growth. 

A seasoned professional, Emma has previously worked at two of the biggest recruitment firms in the world - Randstad and Office Angels. Most recently she worked for The Works, a specialist recruitment firm in Leeds.

Emma, who has worked in recruitment for more than 20 years, said: “I am delighted to be joining the team at Thorn Baker which has a fantastic reputation for being a dynamic, forward-thinking UK recruitment firm which is hugely committed to its staff and clients.

“My role is to ensure we are attracting the best talent out there, ensuring we are nurturing recruiters and building their expertise for them to go into senior recruitment roles within Thorn Baker.

“I came to Thorn Baker because I was impressed with the company’s approach to developing staff and providing them with the skills and training to enable them to take on bigger roles within the organisation.” 

Steve Blacker, KPMG

Steve Blacker has joined KPMG’s Northern practice to head its Innovation Reliefs and Incentives group. 

With 15 years of advising businesses on their tax matters, the last nine of which he has specialised in government sponsored R&D related reliefs within Deloitte, Steve will now be guiding KPMG clients to ensure they leverage the most value from their innovative activities.  

He joins a national Innovation Reliefs and Incentives group of 60, and will work closely with the Newcastle based team led by Debbie Reith.

This growing practice works with North East businesses across all industry sectors, with a particular focus on manufacturing, food production, energy and digital technology, generating millions of pounds of savings each year.  

Commenting on the UK R&D tax regime and his new role, KPMG Associate Partner Steve Blacker said: “Innovation is the watchword for so many enterprises in the North East and is incentivised by the government through its generous R&D tax reliefs and Patent Box scheme, which offer businesses of all sizes significant cash savings for investing in a huge variety of R&D related activities.

"In fact, from 1st April, the R&D tax credit is being further enhanced, to 230 per cent for SMEs and 11 percent for large companies. 

“Our investment in specialists with significant experience means KPMG has a lot of success in not only working with clients at the start of planning for their innovative activities but also in reviewing R&D claims prepared in-house or by other advisors and identifying areas of R&D activity and costs that have been overlooked, often leading to significant claim enhancements and greater cashback.”

(L-R) Craig Brown, business development manager at Tharsus alongside Ruth Hickman and Anton Mirasfari

Ruth Hickman & Anton Mirasfari, Tharsus

Blyth-based fabricator, Tharsus Engineering, has expanded its specialist sales team to support the company’s ambitious growth plans.

The new additions, Ruth Hickman and Anton Mirasfari, will be responsible for identifying new markets as well as establishing and maintaining strong relationships with potential clients.

Business development coordinator, Anton, brings extensive experience from previous roles dealing with high level complaints and providing customer support for companies including the UK’s largest producer of low-carbon electricity.

Ruth, who has been appointed as an account manager, joins from sister company Tharsus Direct where she spent more than a decade developing and honing her customer service and management skills.

Peter Sayer, director at Tharsus Engineering, said: “Tharsus Engineering is an integral part of the Tharsus Group, which can be called upon to deliver an exceptional fabrication service that effectively supplements the other divisions within the group.

“By expanding our sales team we aim to raise the profile of Tharsus Engineering throughout industry and hope to develop and maintain long and rewarding relationship with new customers.”

Pippa Ware, Redcar Development Trust (RDT)

Redcar Development Trust (RDT) has appointed a community engagement specialist as it bids to secure extra cash that will allow new schemes in the area to get off the ground.

Development worker Pippa Ware has joined the organisation with the remit of identifying training and employment opportunities for young jobseekers, strengthening links with key public and private sector partners, and organising events that will generate income for RDT.

The organisation will then invest the funds in training, employment and community schemes that will benefit local residents.

Pippa brings to the role extensive experience of the fundraising sector, having worked on community engagement schemes throughout the North East and Yorkshire.

Previously she worked for Gateshead Council as a sport, lifestyle and development officer and was also involved in community projects surrounding the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Pippa said: “I can’t wait to get started in my new role at RDT. Redcar has a lot to offer and my aim is to build on the excellent community schemes that are already in place here.”

Frankie Wales, founder of RDT, said: “Pippa’s attributes and experience will be invaluable as we look to generate extra income that will fund schemes such as the boxing club, which still runs today. We are very grateful to EDF Energy Renewables for the grant, without which Pippa’s appointment would not have been possible."