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This week’s North East appointments

Our weekly appointments roundup returns for 2017.

Professor Daniel Zizzo, Newcastle University

Newcastle University has appointed internationally renowned research expert and economist Professor Daniel Zizzo as the new acting Head of Newcastle University Business School.

Professor Zizzo will be focusing on the development of the Business School’s long-term strategy; growth of world-class research and teaching; and strengthening links with regional, national and international organisations.

Professor Zizzo said: “I’m delighted to be taking up this role at one of the country’s most prestigious business schools. In my role as Acting Director, I aim to continue to drive excellence through our fantastic staff and students and help the School continue to develop interdisciplinary solutions to real-world problems.

“Our research has an influence on a global scale and allows us to develop state-of-the-art solutions to real-world business challenges.

“By offering our knowledge and expertise to the business community, to the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector and to policy makers, we have developed excellent working relationships – and we will continue to harness and develop these links further in the coming months.”

Tim Ensor, Tharsus

Tharsus Group, a specialist in the design and manufacture of robotic and electromechanical systems, has announced the appointment of Tim Ensor as its Chief Commercial Officer.

As CCO of Tharsus, Tim will be responsible for attracting new customers and promoting Tharsus’ position as the emerging leader in the UK custom robotics sector.

Speaking of his new role and plans for the Group, which has turned over £20m for the first time this year, Tim said: “I’m really excited to be joining Tharsus at this significant stage in its growth.

“The company is rapidly establishing itself as the UK’s leading designer and manufacturer of robotic systems.

“I’m thrilled to be able to spearhead our efforts in helping customers successfully navigate the increase in robotics and automation in their sectors.”

Graham Robb, Entrepreneurs’ Forum

The Entrepreneurs’ Forum, which represents more than 300 companies with a combined turnover of £2.3 billion and 23,000 employees, has appointed prominent North East businessman Graham Robb as its Vice-Chairman.

Mr Robb, who is outgoing Regional Chairman of the Institute of Directors, and a current Entrepreneurs’ Forum board member, has been active in the North East since founding his PR business in 1987.

He started his career in commercial and BBC radio, before founding Recognition PR, which manages media relations for more than 90 organisations throughout the UK.

Graham Robb said: “It is an honour to be appointed Vice-Chairman of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum. The North East is the region most in need of the jobs and growth that can only be created by supporting high-growth businesses.

“It is absolutely essential that decision makers in our region and further afield know the hugely important work being done by entrepreneurs and how they can best be supported.”

Wayne Pocket & Robby Hugill, TTE

The TTE Technical Training Group has appointed two new Global Sales Executives to build its presence in international markets.

Wayne Pocket, 45, and Robby Hugill, 29, bring extensive experience from a range of industry sectors to support TTE’s growing position as a leading supplier of technical training, competency assessment and consultancy to international business.

Steve Grant, Managing Director of TTE, said: “Wayne and Robby’s experience in key sectors and geographies will support our ambitions to expand our global presence.

“Our expertise in delivering upskilling and reskilling for international business, together with our experience in establishing and operating training centres, is transferable across multiple sectors and meet the ever-evolving requirements of industry.

“Our new sales executives will champion our capabilities around the world to enable TTE to deliver skills that improves industry and enhances lives.”

Clare Harrigan, Coast & Country

Coast & Country has appointed Clare Harrigan as Head of Development. Clare joins from one of the largest social housing providers in the UK, Bradford-based Incommunities.

Clare’s responsibilities will focus on the successful evolution and delivery of Coast & Country’s approach to development, to achieve the aims of the Property and Development Strategy and the promotion of its service excellence culture.

Iain Sim, chief executive of Coast & Country, said: “I am delighted to appoint a high-calibre housing professional to this important role.

“Clare will further build on a culture in which high standards of service and performance are expected and which focuses on achieving results.I am confident that with her skills and experience she will make a real impact at Coast & Country.”

Clare said: “I am delighted to be joining Coast & Country and am very much looking forward to the challenges ahead.”

Join us next week monday for more North East appointment news.