Significant appointments and promotions have recently taken place within various organisations in the North East region. These changes reflect strategic growth and development within sectors such as property, finance, and hospitality.
The new roles announced by leading companies like Knight Frank, Azets, and Hotel Gotham, among others, include senior surveyor positions, management roles, and strategic directorial appointments. Such movements indicate a strengthening of professional capabilities and a promising future for the regional business landscape.
Knight Frank Expands Newcastle Team
Knight Frank has notably expanded its Newcastle branch by appointing four new professionals. Felicity Martin enhances the property asset management team as a senior surveyor, where she will oversee up to 20 million square feet across various property types.
Ashleigh Kirkup joins the building consultancy department as a senior surveyor, bringing prior experience from her tenure at Workman LLP. The team has also been strengthened by the addition of graduate surveyors Jamie Parker and John Edwards, active in the industrial agency and capital markets sectors respectively.
Ian Tew, head of the Newcastle office, noted the rigorous recruitment process undertaken to find the right talent. “We have waited for the best fit,” he commented, underscoring the diligence in their hiring efforts.
Azets Welcomes New Leaders in North East
Azets has made a remarkable 27 promotions within its North East offices, part of a broader UK-wide progression of 213 promotions. Among these, Brian Laidlaw has stepped into the role of head for the North East.
The Newcastle office sees a significant number of advancements, with Claire Hinshaw now the managing partner in charge of audit and assurance, along with tax department promotions including new partners Andrew Fitton and Claire Smailes.
CEO Peter Gallanagh emphasised the company’s dedication to talent development and operational efficiency. “Strengthening our capabilities aligns with our objective to support client ambitions,” he remarked.
Hotel Gotham’s Leadership Brings Experience
In anticipation of its grand opening, Hotel Gotham has named Chris Thompson as the general manager, leveraging his robust background from other acclaimed hospitality brands.
His past positions, notably with Malmaison and Hotel du Vin, equip him with the expertise to lead the 60-bedroom hotel poised to redefine luxury accommodation in Newcastle.
Chris Thompson expressed his excitement about the venture, highlighting the hotel as a unique experience in the city, aimed at setting new standards in hospitality.
Advancements at Lowes Financial Management
Lowes Financial Management has continued its strategic expansion with the appointment of Claire Lockey as operations director. Her ascent within the company reflects an ongoing transformation initiative aimed at enhancing operations.
Ms Lockey has been instrumental in shaping company culture and digitalisation efforts, stepping from her previous role in project management to a more strategic position in the firm.
This transition marks a pivotal moment for Lowes, as they embark on leveraging technology to uplift client engagement and service delivery.
Simon Bailes Peugeot Strengthens Management
Simon Bailes Peugeot has bolstered its management with Sheldon Cockburn as head of operations and Louis Shepherd as sales manager. Cockburn’s return is marked by extensive experience gained at luxury brands Bentley and Ferrari.
His role focuses on directing commercial operations and elevating customer service. Meanwhile, Shepherd, with his expertise in sales management, is set to invigorate the Northallerton dealership.
Simon Bailes, the managing director, praises their leadership capabilities as key to driving future success and operational excellence in the automotive sector.
Conclusion
These appointments across diverse industries in the North East signify a vibrant and dynamic business environment. Each strategic hire and promotion reflects the companies’ commitment to growth and excellence, promising enhanced services and operations.
The recent movements in personnel signify a progressive shift within the North East’s business sphere. This wave of appointments and promotions is poised to energise the regional economy, fostering innovation and excellence across industries.
The proactive engagement with talented professionals illustrates these firms’ dedication to strengthening their operations and adapting to growing market demands. The outlook for these organisations remains positive as they continue to build on current successes.
