North East Business Leaders: Key Appointments and Promotions Drive Growth
This week has seen a wave of strategic appointments and promotions across the North East business community, with several prominent firms strengthening their leadership teams to support continued expansion and innovation.
GT3 Architects Promotes Neil Hardy to Director
GT3 Architects has elevated Neil Hardy to the position of director, marking a significant milestone as the Newcastle-based practice celebrates sustained growth. Mr Hardy becomes the first chartered architectural technologist to join the director group at GT3, a move that acknowledges his pivotal role in enhancing technical quality and regulatory standards throughout the firm.
He expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It’s a real privilege to step into this role. When I joined, GT3 was a relatively new and ambitious practice, offering the chance to contribute and help shape the business. Despite numerous challenges in the construction industry, we’ve demonstrated resilience and commitment while achieving sustainable growth.”
Hay & Kilner Welcomes James Stacey to Commercial Property Team
Hay & Kilner, the Newcastle-headquartered law firm, has bolstered its commercial property division with the appointment of James Stacey as a commercial property associate. Mr Stacey joins from another regional law firm, where he served as a commercial property solicitor, advising on a wide array of complex property issues.
He brings extensive experience in sectors such as leisure, retail, charities, pension funds, care providers, banks, and property developers. Reflecting on his new role, he said, “I was drawn to Hay & Kilner by the opportunity to collaborate with a highly respected team and be part of a firm with genuine momentum. There’s a clear forward-thinking approach here, from adopting new technologies and modern work practices to a strong commitment to the local community.”
Co-Navigate Advances Scott Shaftoe to Associate Financial Planner
Co-Navigate, based in Gosforth, has promoted Scott Shaftoe to associate financial planner. Mr Shaftoe joined the business in 2024 as a paraplanner, making a notable career transition from retail to finance. Describing himself as a finance enthusiast, he now aims to progress further as a financial planner.
He shared his perspective, noting, “One of the most under-appreciated benefits a financial planner provides is an external viewpoint on each client’s unique situation. I truly enjoy getting to know our clients and understanding their goals and ambitions.”
Together Appoints Helen Calderley as Corporate Sales Director
Together has appointed Helen Calderley as corporate sales director, a strategic hire to expand its presence across the UK, with a focus on the North East. With over two decades of experience in banking and property finance, Ms Calderley will be responsible for growing the lender’s brand and promoting its products in the region.
She commented, “I’m excited about the new challenge at Together, spreading the message about how our lending can help existing and new customers seize opportunities across the North East. Having worked for competitors, I’m familiar with the business and have seen how it prioritizes people—I already feel like part of the family.”
Jacksons Strengthens Team with New Partner David Adams
Jacksons has enhanced its corporate and commercial team by appointing David Adams as a new partner. Mr Adams brings nearly 20 years of expertise, advising on acquisitions, disposals, management buy-ins and buy-outs, mergers, and joint ventures across key North East sectors.
He began his career at Archers Law LLP in 2007, qualified in 2009, and became a partner in 2013. After the firm’s acquisition by Knights in 2021, he continued as a partner before seeking a fresh challenge. He explained, “I’ve been a one-office lawyer throughout my career, but as I approach 43, I felt it was time for a refresh and a new challenge. I have long-standing friends at Jacksons, including Dan Flounders, whom I worked with for over a decade. The changes at Jacksons sparked my interest, and what they’re achieving at both the firm and corporate team levels is incredibly exciting.”
These appointments and promotions underscore the dynamic nature of the North East business landscape, with firms investing in talent to drive innovation, community engagement, and sustainable growth in the region.
