North East Business Appointments: Apprenticeships and Promotions Drive Growth
Companies and organisations across the North East are making strategic moves this week, with key appointments and promotions announced at Northumbrian Water, Bellway, James Burrell Builders Merchants, and Business Enterprise Fund. These developments underscore the region's focus on nurturing talent through apprenticeships and internal career progression.
Northumbrian Water Promotes Apprentice to Business Analyst
Northumbrian Water has promoted University of Sunderland apprentice Jodie Stewart to the role of business analyst. This promotion comes during the second year of Ms Stewart's studies, following her start as a digital technology solutions apprentice. She joined a degree apprenticeship programme offering six pathways: software engineering, IT consulting, business analysis, cybersecurity, data analysis, and network engineering.
Ms Stewart shared her journey: "I had already attended a year of university to become a primary school teacher, and I decided that wasn't the right career for me. While working in a co-working space for tech companies and start-ups, I found their work fascinating. When I discovered this apprenticeship, it seemed absolutely perfect because it allows exposure to many different teams and departments covering various aspects of digital solutions."
Louise Patterson, head of IS operations and resource management at Northumbrian Water, commented: "Jodie truly embodies what our apprenticeship scheme aims to achieve. Her drive, curiosity, and willingness to immerse herself across digital teams have accelerated her development and made a real impact here. We're incredibly proud of her progression and excited to see where her talent and determination lead next."
Business Enterprise Fund Expands Sunderland Team
Not-for-profit finance provider Business Enterprise Fund (BEF) North East has appointed Lizzie Jowett to its Sunderland-based team. With over 13 years of experience, including roles at Santander, Metro Bank, and as director of Bradford BID, Ms Jowett brings deep commercial expertise and a passion for supporting female-led organisations.
She expressed enthusiasm: "Joining BEF's North East office is an exciting journey. This region is one of the most dynamic in the UK for business, with people across various sectors constantly inspired to achieve great things. It feels amazing to help them on their path to success."
Lee Vickers, BEF's head of North East investments, added: "We're delighted to welcome Lizzie. Growing our team is always positive, but doing so with ideal candidates is particularly rewarding. Lizzie's track record places her among the best talent, making her a fantastic advocate for North East businesses."
Bellway Supports Apprentice Quantity Surveyor
Housebuilder Bellway has helped 23-year-old apprentice quantity surveyor Ciaran Wilson get his career on track. The Newcastle firm employed Mr Wilson from Swindon after he decided a law degree wasn't for him. His degree apprenticeship with Bellway and Northumbria University is set to finish in summer 2029, offering a qualification equivalent to a full-time degree.
Mr Wilson reflected: "I didn't know about apprenticeships before, but if I had been shown this option earlier, I'd have taken it. Learning in lectures and seeing it in reality at work enhances my overall knowledge. My university work improves my job understanding, and my job informs my academic writing, making my essays stronger and more insightful."
James Burrell Builders Merchants Appoints New Director
James Burrell Builders Merchants has appointed Nick Richardson to its board of directors, joining fellow directors Mark Richardson and Rob Richardson. Mr Richardson joined the company in 2017, starting in the accounts team and later moving to purchasing, where he gained insights into supplier relationships and stock management.
He has led the integration of a company-wide computer system, a transformational investment that has overhauled internal processes, improved efficiency, and laid foundations for future growth.
Mark Richardson stated: "As a family-run business, we pride ourselves on our heritage and values while committing to innovation and meeting the construction industry's evolving needs. Nick's appointment is a natural step in his journey, and we're confident his expertise and leadership will shape the company's future."
These appointments and promotions highlight the North East's vibrant business landscape, with a strong emphasis on apprenticeships, talent retention, and strategic growth across diverse sectors.
