People: Sonihull; Ballards LLP; Chancerygate
David Barber is now serving as the chief financial officer at Sonihull, a Coventry-based firm aiming to contribute to the environmental goals of the maritime sector through innovative antifouling solutions.
Before joining Sonihull, Barber spent over five years at Rolls-Royce, reaching the position of senior vice president in finance for the marine propulsion and engines division.
Subsequently, he worked for Kongsberg, a Norwegian maritime and defence technology firm, following its acquisition of Rolls Royce’s marine business.
Later, during the height of the pandemic, he moved on to a role at the major aerospace firm RLC.
He said: “Sonihull is an incredibly ambitious firm which is making a real difference to the maritime industry’s carbon footprint, and I wanted to be a part of that. Its products have the potential to transform the sector in a way that not only benefits the environment but the customers’ bottom line too.
“I’ve always been interested in climate change and finding practical solutions to it – I have a degree in biology – so Sonihull ticked a lot of boxes for me. Sonihull’s team have been incredibly welcoming, and I’m really looking forward to helping grow the company’s reputation all over the world.”
Darren Rowlands, CEO of Sonihull, said: “David joins at a very exciting time for Sonihull. “With rising costs in the industry and a greater focus than ever on climate change and pollution, our products are getting noticed by the industry on a global scale. David brings with him invaluable experience in the industry, and we are delighted to have him on board as we look to grow even further.”
Ballards LLP has announced the addition of Adam Strand to its IT and digital transformation department in the role of senior project Manager.
Possessing a business IT degree, Strand initially taught business and IT up to A level before transitioning into account management and project management.
His focus will be on enhancing processes and systems, offering critical analysis, and providing support to clients navigating significant scaling efforts.
Sean Devlin and Adam Strand
Strand’s responsibilities will revolve around digital project management, covering a broad spectrum of industry sectors.
He said: “The direction that Ballards wants to pursue and its pioneering approach to accountancy transformation set this company apart. It’s not merely an accountancy firm; it’s a company unafraid to venture into different avenues. It’s refreshing to witness Ballards diversify the way they have.” Adam noted that everyone he has encountered at Ballard’s during his brief tenure has exhibited unwavering passion and enthusiasm.
Sean Devlin, IT and digital transformation Partner at Ballards LLP, said: “We are delighted to welcome Adam to our team. His diverse background and commitment to leveraging technology for strategic business advancement align perfectly with Ballards’ vision. Adam’s arrival strengthens our capabilities to deliver innovative solutions and enhance our clients’ digital transformation journeys.”
Chancerygate, a developer and asset manager has announced the appointment of Cathy Myatt as Director of ESG.
Myatt brings with her nearly 30 years of experience, having previously worked at construction company Willmott Dixon.
Cathy Myatt
Her background includes delivering environmental improvement and sustainable solutions in both public and private sectors.
Notably, she spent 14 years at Crossrail, where she held the position of head of environment.
Myatt’s new role will focus will extend to both financial and environmental performance, covering the company’s operations in the UK and Europe.
She said: “Chancerygate has an excellent reputation for not only the capability of its people but also the high specification sustainable product and a track record of successful delivery. Those fundamentals helped attract me to the business and position, and I will channel them to drive positive change in both Chancerygate’s and the wider urban logistics sector’s ESG activity.
“I look forward to working with the team to develop and, more importantly, successfully implement our ESG strategy, framework and targets.”
Chancerygate managing director, Richard Bains, said: “As a developer, we’re committed to delivering high-quality, sustainable accommodation to the benefit of occupiers nationwide.
“Cathy’s appointment is a testament to this. She has significant and demonstrable experience in environmental and sustainability matters within the construction sector. I welcome her to Chancerygate and look forward to her leading our ESG strategy.”
