Mark Telford has announced that he is stepping down from his role as managing director in Forth Engineering.
The company is marking its 25th anniversary and Mr Telford announced he was stepping down at a celebration of its birthday.
He also named his successor on the spot – projects director Graham Cartwright.
Mr Telford – who founded the business with his wife, Nicola, in 2000 – said: “Our 25th anniversary felt like the perfect moment to pass the baton.
“I can’t think of anyone more qualified, deserving, or fitting for the role than Graham.
“He joined us as a young lad 21 years ago and has become an integral part of our growth and success. In truth, he’s been carrying out the managing director role for the last couple of years.
“Now it’s officially his – to shape, to make his own, and to drive forward.”
The celebration, held at Hunday Manor, opened with a rousing address from Whitehaven town crier Marc Goodwin.
Beyond marking Forth’s silver anniversary, the event raised thousands of pounds for Goodlives – the charity Forth has pledged £25,000 to this year – through a raffle, name the teddy contest, stand-up roulette, auction and a win a bar of silver competition.
Guests were also treated to surprise performances from the Silver Service Singing Waiters, a This Is Your Life-style tribute, and live music from popular covers band Jameson.
Founded in November 2000 from the box room of Mark and Nicola’s Frizington home, Forth has grown into a company with three operating bases – and a fourth soon to open in Malta – serving major players in the nuclear, defence, oil and gas, subsea, utilities, agriculture, and renewables sectors.
Mr Cartwright’s journey began in 2004 as an apprentice, quickly impressing Mark with his work ethic and technical knowledge.
By 2010, he was appointed projects director, taking on larger contracts and projects – most notably spearheading the launch of a £250,000 precision engineering facility earlier this year, turning concept into reality in just weeks.
Mr Cartwright said: “I was shellshocked. I had no idea what Mark was about to do when we stepped up to welcome everyone.
“Being appointed MD is a huge honour. I know how much Forth means to Mark and Nicola, and this business has been part of my life for all of my adult life.
“It runs through my veins, occupies my thoughts morning, noon, and night, and has shaped who I am.
“I can’t wait to get started and build on the incredible legacy Mark has created.”
Mr Telford will now move into the role of chief executive officer, offering support and strategic oversight as Mr Cartwright begins his journey as managing director
