Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster has appointed a new chair and four new board directors.
The new chair and directors were formally inducted at BECBC’s annual AGM, held at the North Lakes Hotel on April 17.
BECBC is a member-led business cluster representing organisations from across Cumbria’s energy and wider supply chain.
For over 20 years, it has provided a collective voice for businesses, supporting collaboration, growth and influence at local, regional and national level.
Tom Scaife, a partner at Knights specialising in employment law, has been appointed as the organisation’s new chair.
Tom has supported BECBC for more than a decade.
He said: “This is a critical moment for Cumbria. We have a clear set of national missions, a strong regional proposition and, very soon, a new mayor and new decision-making structures.
“It is absolutely vital that BECBC, and by extension our members, are in the right rooms at the right time, helping to shape those conversations rather than reacting to them.
“The White Paper gives us a shared language and a shared direction. My role as Chair is to make sure we use that to actively support businesses, whether that is helping them influence policy, connect into emerging opportunities or collaborate in ways that strengthen Cumbria’s position nationally. Championing that work and ensuring it delivers tangible value for our members will be a key part of the legacy I want to help build.”
He paid tribute to Paul Pointon, the outgoing chair.
He said: “I want to sincerely thank Paul for his leadership, support and commitment to BECBC. He has helped strengthen both the organisation and its external relationships, and I am building on very strong foundations.”
Four new directors have joined the board – Heather Grisdale, of The Harrison Network, Graham Cartwright of Forth, Andrew Williams, of AtkinsRealis’ Decommissioning Market and Duncan Elliott, of Morgan Sindall.
Heather said: “I bring to the board a clear understanding of how people work across different industries and a practical improvement mindset that helps teams move from good intentions to real progress. When I’m in other rooms, I’ll advocate for
BECBC and bring back anything beneficial because I truly believe in the value the cluster adds.”
Graham added: “I understand the pressures on SMEs operating in the energy sector, from supply chain demands and skills shortages to regulation and constant change. Through the RESOLVE collaboration with fellow BECBC members, I can also bring insight into how partnership working strengthens capability and competitiveness across the region.”
Dianne Richardson, CEO of BECBC, said: “BECBC has always strived to represent its members.
“Our new chair and directors, sitting alongside those who already serve on the board, bring decades of combined supply chain knowledge and a clear dedication to our members and to Cumbria.
“I would also like to thank Paul for his support and leadership as chair, and deputy chair Ruth Sellick for her support over many years, which has helped position the cluster strongly for the next phase.”
