Member Article

NEPIC seeks new CEO as Higgins announces retirement

NEPIC, the North East’s chemical-industry body and member organisation, is seeking a new leader following the announcement that Dr. Stan Higgins, CEO, will retire in the summer.

Dr. Higgins has spearheaded the North-East Process Industry Cluster since its inception in 2004, following the merger of the Wilton-based Teesside Chemical Initiative and the then recently formed Pharmaceutical & Speciality Cluster.

Thirteen years on and, through the delivery of industry growth strategies, NEPIC has grown into one of the UK’s key industry-led, economic cluster bodies.

Stan’s leadership has assisted to the contribution of more than £3 billion of GVA to the North East and UK economies. The firm has also assisted in more than 90 process-sector investments totaling £4 billion and secured some 5,000 jobs.

Furthermore, NEPIC went on to became the first UK Cluster body to receive European Union accreditation for Cluster Management Excellence – and, in 2014, Higgins was personally honoured by the European Commission and awarded European Union Cluster Manager of Year.

The private, member-owned not-for-profit firm supports the region’s chemical-using industries and associated supply chain.

Together with their 300+ member companies, they work to build upon the already powerful industrial base located in North East England to make this region one of the most competitive and successful chemical-processing locations in Europe.

As the Cluster moves into this new phase in the company’s history, they seek a dynamic, experienced chief executive to fulfil this high-profile role and lead NEPIC into its next period of growth and impact.

NEPIC Chairman, Ian Swales, said: “Stan is widely respected throughout the process sector and has done a truly outstanding job in bringing NEPIC to where it is today. Stan is a tough act to follow but has left an exciting opportunity for the next chief executive.”

Outgoing chief executive, Dr. Stan Higgins, commented: “With the fantastic support of our members, we have managed to keep this business in surplus since its inception; with all profits being directed into activities to promote and grow the process industries in North East England.

“The new CEO will have a great time representing a great industry which is always looking towards rejuvenation and growth.”

An application deadline of Friday 24 March 2017 has been set by NEPIC, with more info to be found at its website.

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