Commercial leader to take helm at North East BIC

A North East business support organisation has appointed an experienced commercial leader as its new chief executive.

North East BIC has named Brett Griffiths as chief executive, with Brett set to take up the role on October 1.

He joins from multinational consumer products company Société BIC, where he led its North Europe commercial division.

Originally from South Africa, Brett brings more than 26 years of executive commercial leadership experience spanning Africa, the Middle East, the UK and Northern Europe.

Since relocating with his family to County Durham in 2020, he has also served voluntarily on the board of Enactus UK.

Part of a global non-profit network, Enactus supports university students to create positive social impact through sustainable entrepreneurship.

Brett said: “The North East BIC is a purpose-driven organisation, which aligns perfectly with my values, and I look forward to working with our talented team to build upon its fantastic legacy. 

“It’s a really exciting time for the organisation and the North East region.

“We can see accelerating commercial confidence and inward investment in the North East of England. 

“However, if these developments are to truly deliver for the region, then we must ensure that the benefits are felt across our communities, and this is why organisations such as the North East BIC are so important.

“Over the coming years, the organisation is set to play a pivotal role in providing the support and workspace required to help the region’s businesses start up, scale and grow. 

“It’s a commercial organisation which has such a positive social impact, that was my catalyst to come here.

“I want to thank Paul McEldon for his outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment over many years. 

“The strength, reputation and impact of the North East BIC today are a testament to his vision, and I am grateful that he will support a smooth transition as he begins his well-earned retirement from the BIC.”

Kevan Carrick, chair of the North East BIC, added: “We are delighted that Brett has agreed to join the North East BIC as our new chief executive.

“Throughout his distinguished career, he has become one of the most respected figures in his field, demonstrating an incredible ability to drive both business and social growth. 

“I am delighted that, at a time when global uncertainty and a strained economy can impact the development and growth of SMEs and their subsequent scale up, Brett will bring his skills and commitment to drive forward our emerging strategy. 

“This will help us build upon the successes that the North East BIC has achieved so far.

“On behalf of the board, I welcome Brett to the team and look forward to forging a dynamic future together.”

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