Sosandar, Mazuma Mobile and KPMG: The 67 latest North West hires and promotions
Major employers in the North West such as Sosandar, Mazuma Mobile and KPMG are among the firms who have announced a string of top appointments and promotions in recent weeks.
Other businesses such as Napthens, Time Finance and Deloitte have also moved to strengthened their top teams.
Below, BusinessLive rounds up the latest 67 appointments and promotions in the North West we feel you should not miss.
READ MORE: Click here to sign up to the BusinessLive North West newsletter
READ MORE: Long-serving B&M chief executive who took discount retail giant public to retire
Do you have an appointment you would like to be featured by BusinessLive? Please e-mail North West editor Jon Robinson at [email protected].
Six & Flow
Six & Flow – the Manchester-headquartered growth agency – has made three promotions in its growth team.
Nisha Mardania who started at Six & Flow in April 2021; Charlie Lord who joined in January 2021; and Rose Maloney who has been with the firm since 2016 have all been made growth consultants.
Managing director Rich Wood said: “As a business we are fully committed to developing the team members that we already have working for us so it’s always fantastic to announce these kinds of promotions.
“Nisha, Charlie and Rose are real assets to Six & Flow so their respective promotions are well deserved. Each one brings with them a great mix of creativity and strategic thinking which is what the company is all about.”
Champion Accountants
(Image: Darren Robinson Photography)
Josh Morris has been promoted to head of management accounts at Manchester-headquartered Champion Accountants.
He said: “Achieving this promotion is the result of Champion having supported my progression over a number of years.
“Since joining the management accounts team five years ago, I’ve been awarded more and more responsibility and exposure to larger clients.
“Champion’s working environment is one in which every employee is encouraged to push their potential higher; the company always promotes from within, which means everyone has a chance to take the next step on their career ladder.”
Time Finance
Time Finance has appointed Louise Williams as business development manager in its invoice finance team in Manchester.
She started her career with Lloyds Banking Group in risk before moving into sales and working her way up the ranks to become a regional sales manager.
After 15 years with Lloyds, she moved on to Allianz Trade (at the time Euler Hermes) before taking on a business development role more recently at Praetura Invoice Finance.
She said: “I’m really excited to be joining Time Finance, who have an excellent reputation for delivering flexible and stable solutions that help businesses grow and prosper. I look forward to working with the team and building on their success.”
Sundown Solutions
Lancashire-based technology company Sundown Solutions has announced a string of new hires.
Senior cloud engineering architects Gary Hunter and Tom Meadon have joined as well as senior support engineer Michael Janicki.
Andrew Simpson has been hired as project manager and Madison Johnston has become a member of the support desk team.
The business has also added people and operations lead Michelle Mageean, finance assistant Scott Buchanan and head of customer success, Lara Hart.
Sophie Smith, who joined the business in 2016 as administrator, through internal development and delivering Sundown’s Yellow Bracelet product has now been promoted to service delivery manager.
Napthens
(Image: Jon Super)
Law firm Napthens has welcomed Kieran Donovan as partner and new head of its Liverpool office.
Mr Donovan brings over 20 years of corporate transactional experience to the firm and joins from Weightmans, where he led its owner-managed business group across the Liverpool city region from 2017 to 2022.
Previously, he was head of corporate at a regional law firm and prior to that a partner at an international law firm, operating out of Liverpool.
He said: “The Liverpool City Region has a rich community of high-growth businesses, investors and professional services and there is huge potential here for Napthens.
“The firm’s reputation for building strong, lasting relationships with its clients and intermediary connections through quality service is clear throughout the firm, and I look forward to building on the success that Gareth and the team have achieved to date.”
Alcedo Care Group
(Image: Jay Cain Photo)
Jessica Armand has been appointed as manager by Alcedo Care Group at its recently opened Wigan office, located at Beecham Court
She first joined Alcedo nearly two years ago as a home carer.
She said: “I am thrilled to have been appointed as manager at the Wigan office.
“It’s a great challenge for me personally and a fantastic new step in my caring career. I have loved working at Alcedo Care over the course of the last 18 months or so and am looking forward to developing my career further with the firm.”
Mazuma Mobile
North Lancashire-based Mazuma Mobile has appointed Graham Elleray as its new head of marketing, data and analytics.
Mr Elleray has been promoted into the role that will also cover sister company ICT Reverse Asset Management.
He said: “It is exciting to have the opportunity to work with a group that is going through a big transition and is looking to grow across all the sectors it works in.
“These are exciting times for the company which has a clear strategy for growth and a clear commitment to sustainability and environmental best practice and I am really looking forward to being a part of this and working with a great team of people.”
Davis Blank Furniss
Davis Blank Furniss – the Manchester and Glossop-based law firm – has promoted Rebecca Taylor to senior associate solicitor in its dispute resolution team.
Lauren Sever has also been promoted to associate solicitor in the commercial, corporate and employment department and Joanne Mercer has become an associate probate manager in the private client team.
Managing partner Kate Oldfield said: “All three of these promotions are very much deserved.
“Rebecca, Lauren and Joanne are all experts in their respective fields and are dedicated to delivering a first class level of service for their clients.”
Slater Heelis
Greater Manchester-headquartered law firm Slater Heelis has announced a raft of internal promotions across a range of departments, including seven employees rising to the positions of associate partner and associate.
Sale-based Richard Bradbury and Mohima Miah have been both promoted to the senior roles of associate partners.
In the same team, Claire MacKenzie and Jodie Newton, who specialise in court protection matters and wills, trusts and probate respectively, have been promoted to associates and Basit Maqsood, who joined the private client department in 2021 as a paralegal, has now started a training contract with the firm.
Rising the ranks of the family law team is Claire Higham, who has been with Slater Heelis for approaching six years and gained her law degree while working full-time in 2009.
In the property team, David Jones has been promoted to associate from solicitor.
Finally, advancing to an associate position is Mark Warburton, who’s been part of Slater Heelis’ corporate team since 2015.
Sambro
Greater Manchester-based international toy maker and distributor Sambro has appointed Lisa Longley to the newly-created role of ethical and sustainability manager.
She said: “Managing the products we create, how they are packaged and the impact they have on the environment should be key considerations for all of us at Sambro.
“I will be working with my colleagues across the business to initiate new ways of working, new product developments and other ‘green’ changes to how our business is run.”
CEO Paul Blackaby added: “Our ESG strategy is a pillar of our growth and value enhancement initiative and Lisa’s appointment as ethical sustainability manager, will help drive forward our ESG ambitions and commitments across our business and wider supply chain.”
KPMG UK
KPMG UK has announced that it has promoted six people to partner in the North West.
In Manchester, corporate lawyer Paul Kelly has been promoted to partner, strengthening KPMG Law’s regional offering.
David Lindsay and Laura Smart have become tax partners, while Chris Middlehurst has become a consulting partner and Nigel Hinchliffe has become a partner in deal advisory.
Meanwhile, in Liverpool Kevin O’Sullivan has become a partner in consulting.
Warren Middleton, office senior partner for KPMG in Manchester, said: “Congratulations to our new partners here in the North West. They are all hardworking and dedicated to delivering high quality work and they will be a great addition to the partnership.
“The latest partner promotions also demonstrate KPMG’s continued investment in the North West and truly showcase what incredible talent we have accessible locally for our clients.”
Clough & Willis
Bury and Bolton law firm Clough & Willis has confirmed that two of its team have been promoted.
Nicola Finbow, who joined the firm in 2018 as head of the private client team and was promoted to salaried partner in 2020, has become an equity partner.
Also in the private client team, Rhianna Bateson has been promoted from associate solicitor to salaried partner.
Managing partner Lee Marston said: “As a business, we are firmly built on the talent, dedication, and commitment of our respective teams.
“Both Nicola and Rhianna have been instrumental in building our private client offering over the past few years, so their promotions are hugely deserved and reflect their efforts. Clough & Willis is focused on developing, growing, and promoting from within and this approach will continue to remain a central part of us.”
Deloitte
Deloitte has announced that Tim Bridge will lead its Sports Business Group from June.
A qualified chartered accountant, Mr Bridge has built his career in Deloitte’s Manchester office over the past 13 years, working extensively with investors, governing bodies, national associations, clubs and other sports organisations around the globe.
He succeeds Dan Jones who will be retiring in May, following almost three decades at Deloitte.
Mr Bridge said: “Deloitte’s Sports Business Group has an exciting period ahead, working with some of the largest stakeholders in sport to drive industry-wide transformation, deliver significant financial results and improve the experience of fans and players, alike.
“Sport has always been a leveller, drawing people together to share experiences on the pitch and in the stands.
“I’m looking forward to leading Deloitte’s Sports Business Group in the UK, working to create new initiatives that build growth, investment and resilience within the industry while, in turn, improving the experiences of players, fans and our communities.”
Agent
Manchester-based brand and communications agency Agent has appointed Jen Whyley to lead the firm’s partnerships team.
She joins the agency as head of partnerships and has previously worked at the likes of Edelman, MediaCom and Creative Content Works.
She said: “It’s fantastic to be joining such a talented team at a really exciting point in the business’ journey.
“Agent is incredibly people focused and really practices what it preaches when it comes to equality, diversity and inclusion, which is really important to me.
“I’m looking forward to being part of Agent’s growth and success across the North West, and to help the team continue to do brilliant work.”
JMW Solicitors
The real estate commercial team at JMW Solicitors’ Manchester office has appointed a new equity partner.
David Frankland joins from DWF where he was also an equity partner having joined in 2013.
He said: “This is a great opportunity to join the ambitious real estate commercial team at JMW and I am pleased to be joining an entrepreneurial firm with a strong reputation and a commitment to its chosen markets.
“I am looking forward to working with clients new and old at a firm where strong relationships with clients are paramount.
“There is an excellent team here at JMW and a real culture of growth.”
Primas Law
Manchester and Cheshire-based Primas Law has announced the appointment of two employment partners, David Walton and Danielle Ayres.
These appointments add to the firm’s existing employment partner, Catherine Kerr.
Mr Walton said: “I am thrilled to be joining the team at Primas Law. It is the epitome of the modern legal practice: agile, forward-thinking and receptive, both in terms of its approach to client service delivery, but also in terms of how it looks after its staff, which means a great deal to me.
“Danielle and I are really looking forward to helping grow something special in terms of the future employment offering at Primas Law, alongside an incredibly dedicated and talented team of commercial lawyers across all departments.
“Primas Law really does offer something fresh and exciting within the legal marketplace, and I am proud to be able to be part of its ambitions and growth in the short and long term.”
Pura
Nantwich-based eco-friendly baby care brand Pura has appointed Andy Johnson as its first chief financial officer.
Formerly finance director at AO.com, Mr Johnson was also previously served as finance and supply chain director at Nichols plc, the brand owner of Vimto.
He said: “I am delighted to join an entrepreneurial business looking to disrupt the baby and wipe categories and embark on its next stage of growth from start-up to scale up.
“Having met the team, it is clear there is a common goal and I look forward to playing my part in achieving our goals and help reduce the impact our category has been having on our planet.”
PM+M
PM+M, the chartered accountancy, business advisory and financial planning group, has added to its Bury team with the appointment of Jordan Clark as its newest financial adviser.
He joins the firm from Platinum Independent Financial Services. Before that he worked at W&Co. Financial Planning.
Mr Clark said: “PM+M boasts one of the North West’s leading financial planning teams, so I’m delighted to start the next phase of my career with them.
“My focus will be working to build on our profile in Bury and across the wider region and to deliver a first-class service to our clients.”
Sedulo Group
Business advisory specialist Sedulo Group has announced the appointment of Josh Perry at its Manchester office.
He joins as head of R&D from innovation funding consultancy, Leyton.
Mr Perry said: “The opportunity and timing for me to join the Sedulo Group is perfect.
“On the one hand, The R&D industry is going through a transitional phase, so the demand for a technically astute and financially diligent service to help steer clients through the new R&D minefield has never been greater.
“I’m excited to help more Sedulo clients get access to the correct quality of advice, as well as help them walk the tightrope between claiming their full entitlement whilst avoiding any unnecessary risk.”
Sosandar
Sosandar, the online women’s fashion brand, has appointed Jon Wragg as an independent non-executive director with immediate effect.
From April 2014 to September 2021, he held a number of executive roles with Superdry plc, including e-commerce and wholesale director and global wholesale director.
Prior to this, he spent seven years at Asda WalMart and 26 years at Littlewoods SDG Ltd (now The Very Group).
Chairman Bill Murray said: “Jon brings extensive experience in fashion retail, partnerships and leveraging digital capabilities. He was at Littlewoods when online fashion retailing first came to prominence and has vast knowledge of running a successful e-commerce business.
“We look forward to benefitting from his guidance over the coming years as the group continues to execute on its growth strategy and looks to realise its vision of becoming the go-to one-stop shop for fashion forward women.”
Maldon Hotels
(Image: Mark Waugh)
Maldron Hotel Manchester City Centre has appointed a deputy general manager.
Mark Smith has joined the four-star hotel which opened earlier this year opposite the new Circle Square development off Oxford Road.
Mr Smith has three years’ experience within Dalata, having previously worked as operations manager at Clayton Manchester Airport.
He said: “Through Dalata’s training programme I’ve gained a deeper understanding of my role as a manger and different ways in which I could adapt my management style to achieve the best results, for myself and the team.
“I am incredibly proud to be deputy general manager in this beautiful hotel. It is a really exciting time to be part of the opening of a new hotel in Manchester.”
SAS Daniels
SAS Daniels has expanded its property department with the appointment of Nicola Deutsch as partner in the commercial property team.
She joins the firm from Slater Heelis where she was partner and head of residential development.
She will be based at the Stockport office of the full-service law firm.
Mrs Deutsch said: “It’s an exciting time to join the firm as it continues its growth trajectory. After a lull at the start of the pandemic, there is now a backlog of developments that are coming to the fore. I’m looking forward to working with existing clients at the firm and growing our client base.”
Heatable
A former head of sales at British Gas has joined Warrington-based boiler industry disrupter, Heatable.
Phill Cox held several senior positions at British Gas including national sales performance manager, regional sales manager and most recently holding director of sales.
Founder Sam Price said: “It’s a real honour to have Phil join our team here at Heatable.
“Since launching, we’ve achieved consistent, rapid and continued growth — double digit, year-on-year. What’s more impressive is that we’ve continue to be profitable throughout our expansion, unlike many who operate in this sector.”
Kuits
Manchester law firm Kuits has appointed Eleanor Cummings as its new business development and marketing manager.
She said: “Kuits already has an impressive client list and a strong brand and I’m looking forward to working with the team to not only achieve the firm’s growth ambitions but also to ensure we continue to offer excellent, proactive client service.
“The welcome I have received from Kuits so far highlights the firm’s commitment to creating a caring and collaborative working environment.”
Executive partner Robert Levy added: “Eleanor’s experience and professional marketing skills will play an important role as Kuits continues to grow and evolve to meet the changing needs of our clients.
“We pride ourselves on recruiting and retaining highly skilled people and Eleanor’s appointment demonstrates this.”
Avison Young
Avison Young has made a number of senior promotions at principal, associate director and director level within its Manchester and Liverpool offices.
In Manchester, town planner Neil Lucas has been appointed to principal while James Goode, Rebecca Skerrett and Tom James have now all been promoted into director roles and work in the industrial, telecoms and valuations team, respectively.
Oliver Shore from the building consultancy team has also been promoted to director, while his department colleagues Andy Brooks and Fergus Lowry, have been promoted to associate directors.
Emma Sandham from planning and Shola Oso from property management have also secured associate director positions.
In the Liverpool office, Avison Young has promoted Ben Woodcock and Jack Neild to associate director positions.
Project One
Cheshire-based consulting business Project One has appointed James O’Sullivan as its new chief executive.
After 15 years in the business, current CEO Terry Holland is retiring at the end of June. Mr O’Sullivan first joined Project One in 2014.
He said: “I’m extremely proud to be leading Project One through its next phase and into its 25th anniversary in 2023.
“We will remain independent and continue to thrive and grow, focussed on delivery excellence in change and transformation for our valued and world-class customers.”
Envair Technology
(Image: Kevin Timmons Photography)
Heywood-based Envair Technology, a specialist manufacturer of clean air and containment solutions for the healthcare, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, has announced the appointment of Jonathan Critchley as its new group finance director.
He joins from NRG Fleet Services, a private equity-backed group. He has previously worked with organisations including BBA Aviation, Shop Direct Group and Deloitte.
Mr Critchley said: “I’m looking forward to working closely with Andrew and the rest of the team to add value to Envair Technology and our customers.
“The group is experiencing an exciting period of growth and I’m delighted to be a part of this.”
Belong
Specialist dementia care provider Belong has appointed Martin Rix as its new chief executive.
Mr Rix joins from Norfolk-based Norse Care, where he was chief operating officer, with responsibility for services in 36 care homes and housing with care schemes.
He said: “Belong villages are a leading light within the sector, making a significant contribution to driving standards and creating opportunities, particularly for people with dementia.
“With a number of new villages close to completion, it’s a very exciting time to be joining the organisation, and I’m looking forward to working alongside an incredibly dedicated and talented team of people as we continue to innovate into the future.”
Leasing Options
Manchester-based Leasing Options has announced its latest senior hire.
Craig Easterbrook is returning to the company as affinity and AR manager.
He said: “Leasing Options is in the Champions League of leasing and after a number of years working with or alongside brands such as Jaguar, Land Rover, Mini and BMW it’s great to be back at the business at such an exciting time.
“The innovation, drive and passion shown by the senior leadership team has made it an easy decision to come and play a part.”
Realm Recruit
Legal recruitment consultancy Realm Recruit has added to its specialist team and reached a record headcount with the appointment of two new consultants.
Ben Cowlishaw and Roselyne Zekia have both joined as junior consultants based at Realm’s headquarters in Altrincham.
Managing director Duane Cormell said: “I’m thrilled to welcome Roselyne and Ben to Realm as we continue to grow as a business.
“Last year, Realm hit £1m in turnover and we’ve recently celebrated our most successful month to-date and our strongest start to a year since Realm was established just over six years ago.
“Their joining will help us to further increase our coverage of the commercial insurance and residential conveyancing markets, improving our service to our law firm clients, and takes the team to a headcount of 19, solidifying our position as the largest team of legal recruiters focused on servicing the North West.”