Several companies across the North East region have announced a series of leadership changes, strategic appointments, and workforce expansions reflecting continued growth and development.
Newcastle-based subsea technology and engineering firm SMD has expanded its workforce by approximately 10% over the past year, now employing 314 staff. Since January, the company has recruited 28 permanent and fixed-term employees. Among the new hires, Ryan Lumsden has been appointed product line manager for remotely operated vehicles, while Paul Green assumes the role of head of continuous improvement. Additionally, Hui Yan, a longtime team member with over a decade at SMD, has been promoted to innovation technical manager. Mike Jones, chairman of SMD, emphasised the company’s commitment to nurturing regional talent and supporting the UK subsea engineering sector’s future growth.
In the insurance sector, Newcastle broker Lycetts appointed John Dawson as commercial director. Dawson brings extensive experience across broking, insurer distribution, product development, e-trading, and digital strategy, having spent over 12 years at Zurich where he held senior roles including head of distribution and commercial e-trade manager. At Lycetts, Dawson will oversee insurer relationships and contribute to shaping commercial strategy and client services. He expressed enthusiasm about joining the company and building on its solid reputation for technical expertise and personalised client engagement.
Able Construction has expanded its board with the appointment of Angela Carney as a non-executive director. With a career spanning more than 30 years in construction, Carney has held leadership roles such as managing director at Carney Consultancy and is active in regional construction bodies including Working Well Together North East and Constructing Excellence in the North East. She also holds the presidency of the Northern Counties Builders Federation. Carney aims to provide strategic business advice with an emphasis on enhancing leadership capabilities. Ken Parkin, managing director at Able Construction, praised her proven track record and enthusiasm.
In Durham, lighting manufacturer Artech Lighting welcomed 18-year-old Josh Smith as an apprentice at its head office. Smith joins after completing diplomas in IT and E-Sports and a Level 3 Business Administration qualification. He is the sixth apprentice hired by Artech in five years, as the company seeks to address skills shortages in the sector. Smith expressed excitement about gaining hands-on experience in a supportive learning environment.
The International Centre for Life has added two new trustees to its board: Dr Fozia Saleem, CEO of contract research organisation Magnitude Biosciences, and Dr Owen Burbidge, a Newcastle councillor. Their appointments are expected to contribute fresh perspectives and expertise to the leadership of the research and innovation centre. Fiona Cruikshank, chair of the board, welcomed the new trustees and highlighted the value of their collective experience in guiding Life’s strategic direction.