Member Article

The North East Business and Innovation Centre Expands

The North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC), a regional enterprise agency and business complex is continuing to grow with the appointment of a new member of staff to its front line services team, whilst another employer has been made a permanent member.

Darren Proudfoot, who is 39 and from Monkwearmouth, has joined as caretaker and gardener. Green fingered Darren, will be ensuring that the BIC maintains it’s clean and tidy exterior. Darren has always worked in the great outdoors beginning in construction and then moving to gardening and even his hobbies take place al fresco. Darren said:

“The best thing about my job is being outside. I am definitely happiest in the open-air, when I am not at work I can be found coaching the Seaham Town FC under 15s or fishing.

“My work day varies from cutting grass to tending the hanging baskets and with all this wet weather it’s certainly been a challenge keeping the flowers in bloom. I really enjoy working here, everyone is friendly and polite.”

Susan Stephenson, 52, from Ryhope, originally came to the BIC on a temporary contract covering maternity as Room Hire Coordinator and having worked so hard she was invited to stay permanently. Susan said:

“I honestly thought that right now I would be job hunting so it was with great surprise and pleasure I have been kept on. I would have been sad to leave. I have made some lovely friends here and I really enjoy making sure that all our visitors’ needs are met.

The BIC’s Chief Executive Paul McEldon said: “Sue has really shone in these short five months and it was a great pleasure asking her to remain here at the BIC, likewise I am delighted to welcome Darren to the team.

“Their knowledge, experience and enthusiasm will help us to grow and maintain our excellent reputation with the local business community.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sarah Spence .