People: Construction firm hires to its board; Finance director joins Huddersfield manufacturer

CONSTRUCTION and plant hire business William Birch and Sons has hired Simon Potter and Gemma Shahjahan to its board of directors.

Mr Potter has been hired to the role of construction director, after having joined the business in 1984.

He joined as an apprentice bricklayer and progressed through site to construction manager level.

Ms Shahjahan joined the business in 2010 and has taken on the role of business development director. She has worked for national contractors and seen the business return to growth.

Chris Birch, chairman of William Birch & Sons, said “both internal appointments are a reflection of the business strategy to grow and develop talent in the business, which has 100 strong dedicated employees, whilst bringing in fresh ideas and a new approach to building services.

“Simon’s longevity with the business, some 33 years, and Gemma’s fairly recent introduction just a few years ago reflect our desire to continue delivering customer-centric, innovative and sustainable construction services which is so often complimented by our customers.

“I look forward to their important contribution to the company and seeing the business flourish.”

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Diane Swift of Dual SealFINANCE director Diane Swift has been appointed at Huddersfield glass manufacturer Dual Seal Glass.

Ms Swift joins the company, which recently doubled the size of its production site, from Pland Stainless where she was a financial controller.

Prior to this she was head of financial reporting at insurance broking and financial services group Oval Limited.

The company, which turns 21 this year, employs 115 people at its 100,000 sq ft factory HQ, where it manufactures and supplies insulated glass units for commercial buildings.

Richard Morris, Dual Seal Glass joint managing director said: “We’re delighted to have Diane on board as her financial experience and knowledge will be invaluable as we continue along our growth strategy.

“Her role will be instrumental as we drive the business forward in ways that give us the competitive edge, not least through our operational efficiency, technical knowledge and production excellence.”

Ms Swift, who is joining the firm’s Leeds office, said: “I am delighted to have joined the team at Dual Seal Glass. I’ve watched the business grow with interest over the years and being involved in the next phase of its development will be an exciting challenge.

“Whilst a key focus will be increasing operational capacity, there are many projects in the pipeline that I’m looking forward to being involved in.”

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