Pennant International has announced significant additions to its leadership team. The technology training firm has appointed Klaas van der Leest as a non-executive director and Darren Wiggins as interim chief finance officer.
These appointments come as Pennant aims to bolster its operational capabilities and strategic direction. Both individuals bring extensive experience that aligns with the company’s goals, promising enhanced leadership strength.
Enhancing Leadership Strength with New Appointments
Pennant International, an AIM-listed technology training firm, has strategically reinforced its leadership team. Klaas van der Leest, the chief executive of cybersecurity firm Intercede, joins Pennant as a non-executive director. Concurrently, Darren Wiggins has been appointed as interim chief finance officer for an eight-month term, commencing on September 16.
These appointments are expected to bolster Pennant’s operational efficiency and strategic direction. Klaas’s background in steering technology companies and Darren’s financial expertise will be pivotal as the firm navigates its strategic goals and expansion plans.
Profiles of the New Appointments
Klaas van der Leest brings a wealth of experience to Pennant International. He has led Intercede, an AIM-quoted cybersecurity firm, since 2018. His previous roles include managing director at Intelecom UK, a private equity-backed communications SaaS business. Additionally, he has held senior positions in UK technology companies, focusing on product development and sales strategies.
“We are delighted to welcome Klaas to the board,” stated Ian Dighé, Pennant’s chair, highlighting Klaas’s considerable public market experience and his track record with technology-driven enterprises.
Darren Wiggins, a chartered accountant, has an extensive background in finance and operations within the aerospace and defence sectors. His experience at Meggitt and Melrose, GKN Aerospace’s parent company, is expected to provide robust financial leadership. Darren will support the board as the group approaches its year-end and looks forward to 2025.
Strategic Impact and Expectations
These leadership changes are timely as Pennant International continues to advance its proprietary integrated software suite. Klaas’s expertise in growing technology-led businesses is seen as an invaluable asset.
Darren’s financial acumen will be crucial in strengthening the existing senior management team, providing strategic financial oversight. The board anticipates that these appointments will substantially contribute to the firm’s growth and operational success.
Background of Pennant International
Headquartered in Cheltenham, Pennant International has additional UK offices in Manchester, Fareham, and Leighton Buzzard. The company has a long-standing reputation in the technology training sector.
Pennant’s strategic focus includes enhancing its product offerings and expanding its market reach. The new appointments are aligned with these strategic objectives, bringing in leadership that can drive the company’s vision forward.
The company continues to innovate in technology training, offering solutions that meet the evolving needs of the sector. With Klaas and Darren on board, Pennant aims to maintain its competitive edge.
Board’s Perspective
“Klaas’s considerable public market experience, together with his successful track record, will undoubtedly be an invaluable asset,” remarked Ian Dighé, emphasizing the strategic importance of these appointments.
Ian also noted, “Darren’s significant operational, financial, and industry expertise will further strengthen and complement our senior management team.” This sentiment underscores the board’s confidence in their new appointees.
The board’s clear approval of these new roles highlights their belief in the positive impact Klaas and Darren will have on Pennant’s strategic direction and operational efficiency.
Future Outlook
As Pennant International heads towards its year-end, the leadership changes are expected to bring fresh perspectives and a renewed focus on strategic objectives.
The combination of Klaas’s experience in the technology sector and Darren’s financial expertise positions Pennant to achieve its growth aspirations effectively.
The board is confident that these appointments will help navigate the firm through the challenges and opportunities of the upcoming year.
Final Remarks from the Chair
Ian Dighé expressed his enthusiasm for the new appointments, reaffirming the board’s belief in the strategic value brought by Klaas and Darren. He concluded, “Their combined expertise will be instrumental as Pennant evolves its integrated software suite.”
Pennant International’s strategic appointments of Klaas van der Leest and Darren Wiggins are set to reinforce the firm’s leadership. Their expertise is anticipated to drive the company’s strategic objectives and operational success.
The board’s confidence in these appointments underscores a positive outlook for Pennant as it heads into the new year. Klaas and Darren’s contributions are expected to be instrumental in achieving the firm’s growth aspirations.