This week's North East appointments

Paul Tucker, UNW

North East accountancy and business advisory firm UNW has added to its team of tax practitioners with the appointment of Paul Tucker as employment taxes senior manager.

Paul brings a wealth of experience to the firm, having worked in both the public and private sectors, and spent over 25 years’ as an employment tax specialist.

A chartered tax adviser, he is also a member of the Chartered Institute of Tax National Employment Taxes Committee and Chair of the Chartered Institute of Tax National Employment Tax Forum.

Paul commented: “I saw many attractions with UNW, in particular its strong local presence and the level of expertise and client service available within the firm – which is critical for Employment Tax advisers.

“The chance to work alongside Lee also encouraged me to join the firm, as he is a well-respected adviser in the North East.

“We both share the view that employers need support and that we are the ones who are able to provide that help.

“We already have some great ideas to move forward, and there is an opportunity for us to build a service that is a recognised leader in its field – not only in the North East, but nationally.”

Lee Muter, Employment Taxes partner at UNW, added: “Paul is a superb addition to the team and I am delighted that someone with his knowledge and skillset is joining the firm.

“Paul not only has vast employment taxes experience, but more importantly, he has a strong desire to help clients, build relationships and work as part of the team.

“His arrival provides us with the opportunity to strengthen the service and continue to be viewed in the region as experts within the field.”

Kate Rodi, Newcastle Building Society

Newcastle Building Society has appointed Kate Rodi to its executive team as business change director.

A strategic business leader, Kate has spent more than 15 years in senior level roles, centred on strategic transformation, business change management, organisational efficiency, service experience, technology, and customer operations.

She joins the society having worked for many years for Virgin Media, most recently as director of technology & services, customer & digital solutions.

Kate commented: “I’m delighted to join Newcastle Building Society and evolve a cohesive change agenda that balances both the organisations strategic ambitions and the more immediate business needs.

“The society’s clear purpose and strong customer values particularly attracted my interest.

“Enriching the community and building authentic customer relationships are personal motivations for me and I’m excited about the opportunity to be involved in the projects and activities that support these goals.”

Society chief executive, Andrew Haigh, said: “While 2020 has not been the year that we planned, it has still been one in which we continue to make positive progress.

“We remain committed to continuing to invest, change, and adapt our business to respond to the changing needs of our customers, communities and colleagues.

“I am therefore delighted to welcome Kate to the executive team following her appointment as business change director.

“Kate joins us with a wealth of senior level experience and skills that will contribute to our continued growth and to the delivery of our purpose to connect our communities with a better financial future.”

Steve Bittle, Walker Filtration

Walker Filtration has announced that Steve Bittle has been appointed to the role of group general manager.

Steve will be responsible for the strategy, planning and management of all Walker Filtration Group divisions, driving the full potential of the business and product development in line with customer needs.

Having worked in the Compressed Air and Gas Filtration industry for more than 25 years, Steve brings with him a wealth of experience, including an exceptionally strong technical background, a broad range of management experience, and impressive industry and product knowledge.

He joined the senior management team at Walker Filtration in 2016 as chief design officer.

Steve commented: “I am delighted with my new role and look forward to contributing to the continued success and growth of our company.

“As we develop the full potential of Walker Filtration, we will remain focused on service excellence and innovation.”