The regional advocacy group for the North-east of England’s subsea sector has appointed Bruce Heppenstall as its new chairman.
Heppenstall will take over the reins of Subsea North East from Andrew Hodgson.
Heppenstall will be tasked with promoting the North-east sector on a global scale to maximize opportunities, while working with Subsea UK, the national industry body to provide a forum for collaboration, diversification and technology development.
Bruce Heppenstall said: “I’m looking forward to playing my part in driving further collaboration with our partners across the region and ensuring companies are equipped with the skills and tools they need to succeed. ”
He will also oversee the effective adoption of the government’s apprenticeship levy by Subsea North East member companies and local higher education institutions.
Andrew Hodgson, who has been chairman of Subsea North East since 2010, will continue to attend member events and support local companies as chair of the North East Local Enterprise Partnership.
Hodgson said: “Bruce is a leading and highly respected figure in the industry and I am confident that he will have an immediate impact on Subsea North East. With a long career in industry, he understands the sector and recognizes the challenges facing the UK supply chain. I’d like to take this opportunity to wish him all the best in his new role.”