Member Article

North East festive focus: Jon Gray, Henderson Insurance Brokers Sunderland

Ahead of North East firms shutting up shop in time for a well-earned festive break, we’re quickly catching up with a few of the region’s business leaders before their holiday festivities begin.

Today we welcome Jon Gray, Director at Henderson Insurance Brokers Sunderland, to share his thoughts on the year gone by, the region as a whole and what he plans to do this Christmas.

Your Business

If you had to choose one thing - what are you most proud of your company achieving this year, why?

I am proud of my staff and the newest members of the Henderson Insurance Brokers team, who joined the Group following the acquisition of Branch Insurance Brokers, in Sunderland, earlier this year. Everyone has settled in well and it is has been a really smooth transitional process.

What was the single biggest challenge faced by your firm in 2016?

Overseeing the transitional period and incorporating the existing employees of Branch into the Henderson Insurance Broking Group.

It has been challenging, but equally as exciting, as there are a lot of experienced and talented people who have become part of the team, and our overall North East presence has strengthened as a result.

Can you tell us one thing your business is doing in 2017 that really excites you?

We are gearing up for further expansion in the region and throughout the UK, as Henderson’s aims to grow turnover to £50m by 2020.

My focus is on continuing to oversee the transitional period, and I am excited by what the future holds for the office, and our entire North East operation.

Your Region

Which North East firm has impressed you the most this year, and why?

Building contractors SV Rutter Ltd, which is a well-known firm in the region. It has continued to thrive and grow, even in the face of the global recession, and has produced a number of exciting developments over the years. One of its current developments in Whitley Bay is of particular interest and is really impressive.

Are there any emerging businesses in the region that’ve caught your eye this year that you’ve been previously unaware of?

Quest UAV, in Amble, which manufactures drones. It has continued to grow and serves both the UK and international markets.

Is there an industry or sector of the North East business community which you expect to really take off next year?

I think the offshore sector has some potential in the next year. Windcrew Workboats Ltd is a company which has continued to expand and provides cleaning services for offshore wind turbines and crew boats. I think it will be one to watch out for.

Yourself

What was your first job?

As part of the YTS at Northern Rock.

If you weren’t doing what you do, is there a job you’d love to have?

Being a professional footballer for my beloved Newcastle United! Although, I would settle for a place in the North Shields FC line-up, as I was born and bred in the town.

What do you do on Christmas day?

Eat, drink and be merry with the family! Christmas Day is usually split between going to see family and friends.

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