In recent developments, several prominent North West companies have made noteworthy appointments and organisational changes. Liverpool-based parcel carrier Yodel has named Alison Richardson as its new HR director, while Stephen Robinson has retired after a remarkable 50-year career at Champion Accountants. Meanwhile, Proicere, Urban Splash, Aztec, and Swift Cheshire have also introduced significant new team members or roles, highlighting ongoing progress and innovation within these firms.
Yodel’s New HR Director
Liverpool-based parcel carrier Yodel has appointed Alison Richardson as its new HR director. Previously heading the HR business partner and recruitment teams, Richardson will now oversee 30 HR workstreams.
In her new role, Richardson will focus on organisational design, trade union relationships, and providing support and opportunities for colleagues. ‘People are at the core of Yodel’s operations,’ she said. ‘I look forward to developing innovative HR processes.’
Mike Hancox, Yodel’s CEO, praised Richardson’s dedication and innovation. He said, ‘Alison has played a key role in Yodel’s recent transformation and will be instrumental in its future digital development.’
Champion Accountants Bids Farewell to Partner
Stephen Robinson, a partner at Champion Accountants’ Preston practice, has retired after a 50-year career. Robinson merged his family accounting firm with Champion in 2008, significantly shaping its Preston practice.
Although retiring, Robinson will continue offering consultancy to a few charity sector clients. ‘It has been a pleasure working with Champion’s skilled team over the past 16 years,’ he stated.
Champion partner Lucy Panchal has taken over Robinson’s clients. She joined in November 2023 with a 20-year track record advising SMEs and entrepreneurs.
Ged Cosgrove, Group Managing Partner at Champion, commended Robinson’s generosity and expertise. ‘Stephen’s guidance has been vital during challenging times, from Brexit to Covid,’ he said.
Proicere’s New Associate Director
Consultancy firm Proicere, based in Warrington, has appointed Kurt Metcalfe as Associate Director. Metcalfe’s background in digital engineering within nuclear and energy sectors will support Proicere’s ambitions for digital innovation.
Proicere’s clients include Sellafield Ltd and Urenco. CEO Karl Dooner highlighted the importance of Metcalfe’s role given the government’s renewable infrastructure investments.
Metcalfe joins from Babcock International, where he led the Digital Engineering Function. He will help push new boundaries in digital techniques for Proicere’s Architecture, Engineering, and Construction services.
Urban Splash Expands Marketing Team
Urban Splash has strengthened its marketing team by appointing Feargal McKenna and Beth Richardson. McKenna, formerly of Hobs Group, will enhance Urban Splash’s marketing strategies.
Richardson, who joins from Truth PR in Manchester, will manage the brand’s social and digital channels. She will create engaging content about Urban Splash’s innovative projects.
CEO Julian Curnuck is optimistic about these appointments. ‘Our new colleagues bring unique ambition. Feargal and Beth will elevate our marketing efforts,’ he stated.
Aztec’s New Apprenticeships
Liverpool-based Aztec has introduced new roles for young professionals, adding six new positions across the company. These roles include apprentice bench joiner, site joiner, and electrician’s mate.
Group Managing Director Iain Peacock is enthusiastic about nurturing new talent. ‘It’s exciting to see our diversifying workforce and to have young talents join us at the start of their careers,’ he said.
Peacock also highlighted the importance of building relationships with educational institutions to better prepare students for industry needs.
Swift Cheshire’s New Team Members
Marketing agency Swift Cheshire, based in Sandbach, has expanded its team with three new additions. Conner Davies joins as a graphic designer and photographer.
Matt King has been appointed as the social media manager, and Paul Roscoe takes on the role of head of sales. These hires complete Swift Cheshire’s 11-member team.
Operations Manager Jessica Brown is pleased with the new additions. ‘Each new member brings unique skills that will support our ambitious growth plans,’ she said.
The recent appointments and organisational changes across North West companies demonstrate a focused effort on growth and innovation. From leadership changes at Yodel to new roles at Aztec and Swift Cheshire, these moves reflect a broader trend towards adapting and evolving in dynamic markets. As these firms continue their journeys, their new team members will play crucial roles in shaping their futures.
