A BUSINESSiQ round-up of the key moves at influential companies around the North East - who’s in and who’s out
SABIC
SABIC has appointed Jos Visser as its Teesside Site Director.
Jos joined SABIC in 2003 as Director for European Procurement before moving on to other positions within the group including, most recently, Operations Director for SABIC’s Geleen Site in the Netherlands.
He previously held roles for the Dutch multinational company DSM, in research and development, project management, corporate recruitment and operations management. Jos has a degree in chemical engineering from Twente University (Netherlands) and a business degree from Wharton University (USA).
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SABIC is one of the world’s leading petrochemical companies, operating in over 50 countries and employing over 31,000 people worldwide. It has operated on Teesside since 2006, through its subsidiary, SABIC UK Petrochemicals Limited.
SABIC UK Petrochemicals Limited has its headquarters based within the Wilton Centre, but has manufacturing and storage facilities located over two nearby sites, at Wiltn International and North Tees.
Jos was appointed as SABIC’s Site Director when his predecessor, Daren Smith, took retirement earlier this summer.
Materials Processing Institute
Chris McDonald, Chief Executive of the Materials Processing Institute, has been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the profession.
One of the highest honours an engineer can receive in the UK, the Fellowship brings together the most successful and talented people to use their expertise to advance and promote excellence in science, engineering, and technology.
This year’s new Fellows also include Sir Patrick Valance, the Government’s Chief Scientific Adviser.
Chris said: “Being elected a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering is a tremendous personal honour and it also reflects the work of national significance that is being led by the Institute. These range from hydrogen innovation in green steelmaking and developing the world’s first zero emission cement, to improving waste heat recovery in industrial processes.”
Hodgson Sayers
Stanley-based, multi-award winning, building and roofing specialist, Hodgson Sayers, has announced the appointment of Andrew Pinkerton as contract manager.
Andrew’s arrival follows that of Linden Blackwood as contract manager for the company’s Nottingham office, operating across the Midlands.
Andrew, from Stanley, has commenced work on a number of projects including the roof refurbishment to Grade II listed Darlington Library.
Andrew said: “Having taken a break from the construction sector to spend time with my family, I felt now was the right time to return. I firmly believe that construction runs in my blood and being from Stanley, I have been aware of Hodgson Sayers for years.”
Bannatyne Health Club
Harriet Burrows has been appointed as the new general manager at the Bannatyne Health Club & Spa Ingleby Barwick.
She joins the Myton Road health club from the Group’s Hastings health club and spa where she was assistant general manager.
She said: “For me the gym became my happy place so to be given my first opportunity to work in the sector at Bannatyne’s in Eastbourne was amazing. Then to move to the North East has been a big change for me but everyone has been very welcoming.
NOF
NOF, the Durham-based UK business development organisation for the energy sector, has strengthened its senior leadership team with the appointment of John Leer as its new head of stakeholder & business engagement.
With an extensive track record in working with a wide range of businesses over the past two decades, John will apply his experience and expertise to further grow the key strategic relationships that are fundamental to NOF’s role in helping its members and partners connect, network and secure new business.
Having moved into inward investment more than 20 years ago with the Tees Valley Development Company, which has since evolved into the Tees Valley Combined Authority, John has made a significant contribution to North East England and UK economies.
He has worked with a broad spectrum of businesses in support of their growth and investment strategies, including FujiFilm, Cummins Engines, GB Bank and, most recently, SeAH Wind.
John will continue to build strategic relationships in his new position at NOF as part of the organisation’s senior leadership team alongside Joanne Leng MBE, chief executive, George Rafferty, director strategy & growth, Caroline Lofthouse, head of business development and Paul Livingstone, head of membership.
John also succeeds Caroline Lofthouse as cluster manager for Energi Coast, North East England’s offshore wind cluster.
Working closely with Energi Coast chair Tony Quinn and the cluster participants, John will help to deliver the cluster’s strategy to showcase the supply chain capabilities of North East England, support innovation and skills development in both fixed and floating offshore wind markets, while, of course, attracting inward investment to the region.
John said: “Having worked in partnership with NOF for many years, I have always been impressed with its comprehensive approach to helping members secure new business and contribute to the energy transition.
“I am very passionate about British industry and see significant opportunities in the energy sector that our members can benefit from and contribute to achieving a balanced energy mix.”
Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter
After five fulfilling years as a trustee, Andrea Wylie has taken up a new voluntary position at Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter as Chair of the Board of Trustees.
The charity, which is celebrating 125 years of providing care for animals in need this year, has also appointed Nick Manson as the new Vice Chair
With a base at Claremont Road and a rehoming centre at Benton Road in Newcastle, Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter reunites lost animals with their owners and finds new homes for those no longer wanted.
Like all charities, it has faced significant challenges over the last few years and, for Andrea, ensuring the Shelter is well-placed to weather the current issues caused by the cost-of-living crisis is a priority.
Andrea, aged 50 from Jesmond, says: “Everyone here at the Shelter shares a great passion for animal welfare and I’m very proud, not just to be part of this team, but to be taking on this new responsibility.
“The Shelter’s staff and volunteers showed incredible commitment during what has been a very challenging period in the charity’s history and I know that means we’re well-placed to handle whatever the future has in store for us. Our previous Chair, Sue Syson, put in a tremendous amount of effort during her tenure and we’re grateful to her.
“Like everyone, the Shelter is now facing hugely increased energy bills, which is a significant issue for us heading into the winter and with so many animals to keep warm.
“And because this is an extremely difficult time financially for many people, we’re anticipating a knock-on effect on animal welfare. We hope to be able to increase the support and help we already offer for pet-owners experiencing financial hardship, as well as continuing to provide a safe haven for animals needing a loving new home.”
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