This week's North East appointments

Sharon Gwati-Mudzudzu, Hicomply

Software platform Hicomply has announced the appointment of search engine optimisation expert Sharon Gwati-Mudzudzu.

Sharon, from Carlisle, initially trained as a web designer but over the years has honed her skills to become in demand for both her technical skills and strategic planning for a range of companies.

“This is the first time I have had an in-house job as I’ve always worked for a variety of digital marketing agencies,” she said.

“But this seemed like the perfect time to get into an industry that is still fairly new and which would bring me some exciting challenges.

“I love working with data and there are so many changes in the way that SEO operates that it’s very exciting to be able to bring my knowledge to Hicomply.”

Sharon’s work will include helping to grow the Hicomply brand digitally, highlighting the fact the company is at the forefront of information security.

“SEO is very much like the wild west and people end up paying a lot of money for what turns out to be not very effective,” she said.

“Hicomply is such a cutting edge company that it’s a fantastic opportunity to help them grow.”

Douglas Montgomerie, Lowes Financial Management

Leading North-East independent financial advice firm, Lowes Financial Management - celebrating 50 years of servicing clients – has appointed a business development specialist as the firm continues to grow.

Douglas Montgomerie joins the award-winning IFA from national wealth managers Brewin Dolphin where he worked in investment management for more than three years. Prior to that Douglas was a private banking relationship manager at Yorkshire Bank for over 11 years.

Douglas commented: “What attracted me to Lowes was their outstanding commitment to client servicing, professionalism and integrity. Lowes has a wide range of excellent financial planning services. Along with this, they also have a team of highly qualified, experienced advisers who are supported by a large back-office.

“It’s all about relationships and building connections with individuals. My role is to get out and meet people, develop links with organisations across the region and facilitate introductions to our advisers.

“Not everyone welcomes or likes the big corporate approach of some wealth managers. Lowes remains a family business, providing a highly personalised service to their clients- backed up by knowledge and financial expertise.”

Ian Lowes, MD of Lowes, said: “We pride ourselves on our client service, depth of knowledge, professionalism, integrity, and approachability. I am confident Douglas will add value to the team and strengthen our links across the North-East helping to raise our profile and reputation.”