Unipart strengthens leadership team

Oxford-based supply chain specialist Unipart has announced key leadership changes to support its growth and innovation strategy.

Jim Hartshorne has been appointed managing director, commercial, after joining Unipart in 2024 as managing director, automotive. He will now lead business development and customer engagement across sectors.

Carol Rose-Burke becomes managing director, manufacturing, after three decades with the company. She will expand Unipart’s advanced manufacturing capabilities, particularly in sustainable supply chains.

Meanwhile, Dr. David McGorman, who was previously managing director of Instrumentel, which was acquired by Unipart in 2017, is now managing director, technology. He will oversee Unipart’s technology and performance improvement offerings while heading the rail and public transport sector.

Finally, Richard Gifford, IT Director since 2024, joins the executive leadership team, bringing over 25 years of experience in digital transformation.

Unipart rail managing director Neil McNicholas is also set to retire this month after three years with the company.

Darren Leigh, chief executive of Unipart, said: “I’m delighted to announce the roles of Jim, Carol, David and Richard within the Unipart executive leadership team.

“They offer the expertise and breadth of experience we need to achieve our ambition to be the driving force behind efficient, resilient and sustainable supply chains for customers across our seven sectors.

“Unipart has a broad range of capabilities that can benefit new and existing customers throughout their supply chains, and I’m confident we have the senior leadership team in place to lead our people to deliver this and grow our offer to the market.

“I’d like to thank Neil McNicholas for his leadership and commitment in his time with Unipart.

“He has played a key role in growing our breadth of supply chain solutions for the rail sector, and I wish him all the best for his retirement.”

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