Top moves at influential companies across the Northeast

PD Ports

PD Ports has announced the appointment of Michelle Robson to its leadership team.

As Chief Human Resources and Compliance Officer, Michelle will be responsible for a wide range of key functions across the PD Ports Group, including HR; Health, Safety and Environment; resilience, business continuity and security; Port Police and Port Authority.

Michelle has a strong leadership background and extensive experience driving people strategies that deliver strong business results. She joined PD Ports from Indicia Worldwide, where she served as Global Chief People Officer, responsible for the company’s international human resources strategy.

Michelle Robson (Photo: PDP)

He also has previous experience in senior management positions, including over 20 years in the shipbuilding and offshore oil and gas industries in Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, as well as experience in manufacturing and engineering.

Michelle Robson said: “I’m delighted to be part of a forward-thinking and dynamic company with a strong track record of performance and employee development.

“While I have experience in the maritime industry, ports and logistics are a new sector for me – I want to not only understand our business, but also understand the customers and communities we serve.

“I will look at our current plans and priorities to see how I can build on them to shape the future by making sure we are a safe and great place to work.”

PD Ports’ current Chief Human Resources and Compliance Officer, Jon Armstrong, will step down this summer following a transition period with Michelle.

Frans Calje, CEO of PD Ports, said: “A company is only as good as the people it employs – it is vital that, as a major employer in the region, we take a leading role in upholding our core values ​​as a business, supporting and developing our people both professionally , as well as in person.

“Michelle brings a wealth of experience to her new role at PD Ports and I look forward to seeing her impact on the business.

“Jon has played a fundamental role in keeping PD Ports strong and resilient through some of the most turbulent times in recent years.”

Constructing excellence

Constructing Excellence North East has announced that Nik Turner, executive director of community and customer service at Believe Housing, will be its new chairman.

Nik replaces Carol Cairns, who represented Northumbrian Water Group (NWG) on the board, and will be supported by Lee Francis, CEO of RE:GEN Group, who is vice-chairman.

After five years on the board, Nik began leading the leadership team, working with Constructing Excellence North East chief executive Catriona Lingwood to help the region’s construction sector maximize its value and position.

Nik, said: “We have weathered many external changes and industry challenges over the last few years. However, Constructing Excellence North East has a key role to play in bringing members together to drive change and deliver real success for our region. Now more than ever, as decentralization continues, we want to give our members a collective voice, ensuring that decision-makers and key stakeholders understand the needs and aspirations of our sector.

“We want to increase our membership and in particular we want to reach out to subcontractors, SMEs and construction companies who are currently under-represented across our membership. Those who joined shared that they really saw the benefits of working with main contractors, clients and other professionals, so we are keen to share their stories and encourage others across the North East to join and reap the benefits.”

Pacific

Pacifica has announced that former HomeServe UK chief executive Martin Bennett has become president of the company.

Pacifica, based in Houghton-le-Spring, County Durham, is a leading appliance repair and warranty company.

Martin currently serves in various CEO roles at companies in sectors including technology, finance, and health and wellness.

With a background in financial services and consultancy, he joined HomeServe plc in 2003 as commercial director and progressed through the company to become chief executive between 2014 and 2018.

Martin Bennett said: “The company is uniquely positioned to be able to provide regulated device warranties and on-demand repairs, all thanks to its own technology and in-house engineering staff.

“Pacifica not only keeps households moving, it does so in a way that has a significantly positive impact on the environment.”

TGA

TGA Consulting Engineers has announced double promotions.

Dave Warwick and Stephen Weddle have been promoted to director positions, leading specialist teams within TGA that are key to the success of the company’s long-term strategy.

Since joining TGA in 2019, Dave Warwick has established and developed the Building Performance team and ensured that it is an integral part of the TGA team on all projects.

Dave said: “TGA has given me the opportunity to build a building performance team with real strength and depth in all aspects of building performance and sustainable design.”

Stephen Weddle, who has been with TGA for 23 years, has been promoted to director, head of digital. His adventure with TGA began as an intern.

Stephen said: “We have assembled a team of energetic and talented people who are excited about the benefits that technology and collaboration can bring to the industry.”

RGCF

RG Corporate Finance (RGCF) has welcomed Andy Alexander to the company as Director of Corporate Finance as the company continues to expand its team to meet demand.

Andy joins the Newcastle-based corporate finance boutique from Azets, formerly MHA Tait Walker, where he spent four years developing his audit expertise, working with clients in sectors such as manufacturing, sports, technology and social care.

From Northumberland, he started his career in 2017 with an accounting firm in the East Midlands, alongside his studies for an undergraduate degree in Accounting and Finance at Sheffield Hallam University.

Partner, Nick Johnson, Andy Alexander and partner and head of CF, Carl Swansbury (Photo: CF)

He returned to the North East on MHA Tait Walker’s Graduate Scheme, where he completed his ACA Chartered Accountancy and Audit Diploma.

As part of RGCF, Andy will advise on a variety of M&A transactions, working closely with RGCF’s team of over 20 corporate finance, finance/tax due diligence and transaction tax specialists, and an extensive and growing portfolio of regional and national clients.

Andy Alexander, CF Executive Director at RGCF, said: “RGCF has built an excellent reputation and the work schedule reflects both its position in the UK M&A market and the demand for the high-quality services and advice it provides.”

Carl Swansbury, partner and head of corporate finance at RGCF, said: “Andy is a very talented rising star and I am delighted that we have been able to attract him to RGCF as CFO of corporate finance. We are building a national CF team with a strong combination of talent and experience that can provide our clients with practical, contemporary and objective advice to ensure the best possible transaction outcome.

“Andy has the opportunity to advance his career at RGCF, gaining knowledge and experience that will serve him and our clients well for years to come.”