This week's round-up of appointments and promotions across the North East features notable changes at Groundwork NE & Cumbria, Route, the Lighthouse Charity, Screen Alliance North, Burnetts Solicitors, and Stelrad Group.
Groundwork NE & Cumbria Appoints New Chair
Community and environmental charity Groundwork NE & Cumbria has appointed Alison Fellows as its new chair of the board of trustees. Ms Fellows joins at a time when the charity notes that North East communities face economic uncertainty, persistent inequalities, climate and nature emergencies, and sustained pressure on public services. She will help guide Groundwork through these challenges and support its mission to improve lives and opportunities across the region.
With a career in commercial law and economic regeneration in both public and private sectors, Ms Fellows describes this role as her "third career." She expressed excitement about joining the charity, stating: "I am keen to use my skills, experience, and contacts to support the charity and deliver meaningful impact across the region. I am a proud Northerner, and giving back to the region is very important to me." Having worked in the North East for over 30 years, she has witnessed the challenges faced by many in rural and industrial areas.
Route Promotes Staff in 10th Anniversary Year
Newcastle marketing agency Route has announced two internal promotions as it celebrates its 10th anniversary. Co-founder Ben Dascombe highlighted the importance of team strength in attracting and retaining high-profile clients. "Building a culture where talented people can thrive has always been central to our growth," he said.
Long-standing team member Kane Elgey has been promoted to account director, and Sophie Tuck to account manager, in recognition of their personal and professional development. The agency has also seen growth from new client wins including Merry Hill shopping centre, the Federation of Master Builders, and Tyneside Home Improvements, joining existing clients such as First Bus, RIBA, Darlington Building Society, and Environment Bank.
Lighthouse Charity Welcomes New Committee Member
The Lighthouse Charity, which provides 24/7 holistic support to the UK and Ireland construction community, has announced Gary Brannighan as a new committee member. Mr Brannighan, business development manager at Hodgson Sayers, joins a team of industry professionals. The charity celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, with its name deriving from St Mary's Lighthouse in Whitley Bay.
Mr Brannighan emphasised his commitment to promoting wellbeing in construction, an industry with unique pressures. "It's vital people can speak openly and access support without fear or stigma," he said. Sarah Sidey, regional chair of the Lighthouse Charity in the North East, welcomed him at a significant time in the charity's history, noting its origins in the region 70 years ago.
Screen Alliance North Launches Sustainability Training
Screen industry skills cluster Screen Alliance North has launched the first cohort of its Sustainability Managers Training programme, featuring two participants from the North East: Julie Moran and Daniel Shepperson. The course trains eight TV and film professionals from across the North of England for sustainable production roles at head of department level.
This is the first training course built specifically on the newly created National Occupational Standards (NOS) for sustainability managers. Sally Mills, course lead and sustainability programme director, said: "This is the first course to align with the pioneering Sustainability National Occupational Standards, ensuring sustainability is a core, expertly-managed part of every production across the North."
Burnetts Solicitors Appoints New Equity Partners
Newcastle law firm Burnetts Solicitors LLP has appointed two new equity partners: corporate partner Jennifer Bell and co-head of Agri and Estates Mike Nicholls. Ms Bell advises private companies, owner-managed businesses, and management teams on commercial and corporate matters. Mr Nicholls has extensive experience in private client and property law.
Ms Bell expressed pride in becoming an equity partner, highlighting the firm's emphasis on teamwork and practical, commercially focused advice. Mr Nicholls added: "I'm delighted to be part of a firm with such a strong, values-based culture and look forward to contributing to its growth."
Stelrad Group Appoints New Chair Designate
Radiator manufacturer Stelrad Group has announced Martyn Coffey as an independent non-executive director and chair designate. He will succeed Bob Ellis as chair after the company's annual general meeting on May 20. Mr Coffey brings extensive board experience from manufacturing, HVAC, building materials, and construction industries.
He currently serves as a non-executive director at Taylor Wimpey plc and as a non-executive director and chair of the Remuneration Committee at Luceco plc. His career includes 11 years as CEO of Marshalls plc and CEO of Baxi Group. Trevor Harvey, CEO of Stelrad, thanked Bob Ellis for his leadership and expressed eagerness to work with Mr Coffey, citing his valuable perspective from executive and non-executive roles, UK listed company experience, and knowledge of building products and HVAC industries.
