Partner Article

Petards makes senior leadership appointments

Gateshead-based security and surveillance technology firm Petards Joyce-Loebl Limited has promoted Victoria Hodge to managing director and appointed Maria Walker as business development manager for its rail division.

Victoria joined the company eight years ago and progressed through a series of commercial and operational roles, most recently serving as general manager. 

She previously held senior commercial positions at BAE Systems and DeepOcean. 

Her promotion marks the first time Petards has appointed a managing director as the highest-ranking executive of the business.

Victoria said: “As managing director, I look forward to championing and elevating Petard’s market presence and market share as our team builds on existing products and introduces innovative, pioneering Al technologies.

“My focus is on strategic leadership, operational excellence, and ensuring Petards continues to drive sustainable growth and trading performance over the medium and long term. 

“This will be achieved through the successful delivery of our existing order book and client commitments, alongside the execution of the company’s new product roadmap and the introduction of innovative solutions to the market.

“In 2026, the company will host a series of data-driven product trials within live client environments, creating a significant opportunity to accelerate growth, deepen industry insight, and advance innovation. 

“Further updates on the progress of our product roadmap will be shared publicly, later this year.

“To realise this ambition, we have intentionally chosen to differentiate ourselves. 

“Our team sees the future as an opportunity to reshape and redefine what is possible within our industries. 

“Above all, our people remain our greatest asset. 

“The continued development of our talent and culture through open engagement will be fundamental to building a forward-looking organisation that is equipped to lead our industries into the future.”

Maria joins the Petards Rail team with experience at Telent Technology Services, Icomera and Nomad Digital. 

She will lead UK business accounts and support growth across the rail sector.

Maria added: “Petards Rail has a highly respected heritage and manufactures one of the largest sources of on-train CCTV systems in the UK.

“My role offers an exceptional opportunity to support and nurture our impressive client base, not least, as we gear up to the launch of an advanced tech enhancement that further supports rail passenger safety.”

Victoria added: “We are delighted to welcome Maria to our team. 

“She joins the business at an exciting time which sees our 2026 order intake at an exceptional level.

“Her wealth of experience within rail and record of achieving business growth and strategic partnerships will be invaluable as we continue to innovate our sector products and technology.”

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