This week’s North West appointments

Emma Beardsley and Gail Titchener, Firework PR

Boutique public relations agency Firework PR has appointed two associate directors.

The Cheshire-based company said Emma Beardsley and Gail Titchener, both long-standing members of its team, have been promoted in recognition of their “outstanding contribution” to the business.

In their new roles, the pair will work with agency founders Andrea Hounsham and Clare Wall to develop dedicated areas of specialism based on their brand experience in the home interest, retail, leisure and professional services sectors.

Emma, who has worked at Firework PR for five years, said: “I’ve had the opportunity to work with some great brands as well as help develop and shape the business.

“Firework has given me the flexibility and support to advance my career whilst bringing up a young family which is very rare.”

Gail, meanwhile, has been with Firework for two years. A passionate writer, she enjoys helping startups and small businesses achieve success by spreading their company stories.

In a joint statement, Firework founders Andrea and Clare said of the promotions: “We’re excited to have both Gail and Emma on board to lead the business as we create our plans for the next five years.

“They have helped to reinvigorate our energy for the future. We’ll be focusing on developing the work we love, which is working with the business leaders and executive teams, whatever the size of the company, to build their brand with strong stories, effective messages and thought leadership that help deliver success.”

Paul Chadwick, First Capital Cashflow

Cheshire-based payment processing firm First Capital Cashflow has announced the appointment of Paul Chadwick in the role of new business development consultant.

At First Capital, Paul will lead on driving the company’s new business development strategy and promoting its cloud-based Direct Debit and Direct Credit payment offers.

Prior to his appointment, Paul was a senior business development manager for over 20 years at global vehicle warranty and asset protection company Car Care Plan.

First Capital Cashflow MD Conrad Broadbent said: “We are delighted to welcome Paul on board to help us build upon our very successful year in 2016.

“Paul’s previous experience with FCA regulation and payment processing will be a vital asset and will significantly help us to further increase our client portfolio.”

Paul commented: “I am really looking forward to joining the team at First Capital Cashflow. Using my long-term experience, I relish the opportunity to support the firm’s ambitious growth objectives for 2017 ensuring we continue to be the leading Bacs approved payments bureau in the UK.”

Peter Train, University of Cumbria

The University of Cumbria has appointed a new apprenticeship development manager.

Following his appointment Peter Train, the former head of learning and development at Cumbria Police, will work to allow Cumbrian businesses to take advantage of the new higher level and degree apprenticeship schemes.

Peter originally developed partnership working with the university from the perspective of an employer.

He said: “The university is keen to engage with employers across Cumbria and staff here are looking for new opportunities to share our existing expertise in areas such as management, health and teaching more widely.

“These are really good opportunities for local business, not just in taking on new employees but also by allowing companies to develop the skills of existing employees to improve their business.”

Now, Peter is looking forward to meeting and speaking with employers all over the county, working to identify areas where university collaboration could help develop their business.

Anthony Greensmith, Lyceum Capital

Investor Lyceum Capital has appointed Anthony Greensmith to support its deal activity in the North.

Anthony has joined Lyceum following 14 years at Montagu Private Equity, where he served as a board member and headed up its Northern operations in Manchester.

At Lyceum, Anthony’s remit will include strengthening the firm’s relationships in the region and increasing its investment footprint.

Lyceum Capital managing partner Jeremy Hand said: “We are delighted to welcome Anthony to the team, as we expand our on-the-ground presence across the UK.

“As a seasoned dealmaker with more than two decades’ experience, his extensive local network will enable Lyceum to build deeper relationships with more businesses in the North.”

Anthony Greensmith commented: “There are some great businesses in the region led by hungry teams wanting to unlock the potential in the businesses they run.

“Whether organically or through M&A, Lyceum is committed to creating market leaders and investing for growth.”

He added: “I’m sure that will resonate with CEOs and business owners alike.”

James Wilkins, The Delivery Group

Warrington-based e-commerce and mail delivery firm The Delivery Group has appointed James Wilkins as its group operations and IT director.

In his new role, James will develop and drive the company’s operational strategy, supporting over 500 staff across the group’s three companies.

Group chairman Paul Carvell said: “Our e-commerce and specialist mail delivery group has grown by over 60 per cent in 2016 after joining forces with P2P, thanks in no small part to our continued investment in innovation.

“To achieve our ambitious growth forecasts for 2017 and beyond we have accelerated our already significant investment in disruptive technology and IT, which will generate a step change in the way we do business.”

He added: “James has demonstrated the qualities we need Group-wide through his work at Secured Mail and I have no doubt his expertise will be invaluable as we continually develop our services for our clients.”

James previously oversaw investment in innovation at Secured Mail, one of the The Delivery Group’s founding member businesses.

Commenting on his appointment, he said: “I share in the board’s ambition to create an unrivalled domestic and international e-commerce and specialist mail distribution operation – expanding our revenue streams through increased integration solutions that will be key to that journey.

“Our industry is changing dramatically and being one step ahead of our customers’ needs is key. We are confident that with our cloud based high availability solutions, our international, domestic, courier and hand delivery bespoke services, we will deliver continued market disruption.”

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