People: New CEO at Magna; Drax announce new board member; Law firm announces raft of promotions

A new chief executive has been unveiled at Magna Rotherham to build on the venue’s success.

Kevin Tomlinson, who is from Rotherham, was UK head of global outsourcing company Capgemini until retirement in 2008. He became a trustee of Magna, which is a charity, in 2014 and has now taken over as chief executive from John Silker, who died last year.

Magna, which is housed in the former Templeborough steelworks near junction 34 of the M1, offers space for corporate events, as well as hosting its own. It is also an award-winning visitor attraction, with more than 100 hands-on exhibits designed to explore the four elements of air, water, earth and fire, and it hosts regular educational visits.

Tomlinson said: “I have worked away from Rotherham, everywhere from the US to Australia, but I have always lived here. I’m nearly 65 now so this business opportunity is probably my last chance to give something back to my home town.”

After leaving school, Tomlinson went to work for British Steel as an apprentice in Rotherham, working his way up to become one of the youngest senior managers at the company, before leaving to join Capgemini in 1996.

He was in charge of more than 5,000 employees and IT systems for giants including the Metropolitan Police, Matalan and HMRC. After retiring in 2008, he ran a management consultancy turning businesses around, before ill health forced him to give that up. Frustrated by having little to do, he was persuaded to join the board of trustees at Magna, before now taking on the mantle of chief executive.

“This role is an exciting proposition, a real business challenge where the opportunities for improvement are enormous. We need to build on what has been done so far, grow the business revenues and invest even more to enable us to further improve the customer experience in the science centre and our educational services,” said Tomlinson. 

Brian Chapple, chair of the Magna Trust, said: “The trustees were delighted when Kevin agreed to become chief executive of Magna. Kevin’s successful track record in business and his personal knowledge and understanding of the steel industry make him the ideal person for the role.”

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The Board of Drax Group has announced Vanessa Simms is to be appointed as a Non-Executive Director, with effect from 19 June 2018. 

Vanessa is chief financial officer at Grainger and has a strong background in listed businesses, with more than 20 years experience working in senior leadership roles at Unite Group, SEGRO, Stryker Corp and Vodafone Group.  She has particular expertise in leading and implementing strategic change.

Philip Cox, chairman of Drax, said:  “The directors are delighted to welcome Vanessa to the Board. Her financial and commercial experience from a broad range of companies and industries will provide real value as Drax delivers on its purpose to help change the way energy is generated, supplied and used for a better future.“

Simms added: “I’m looking forward to joining the Board of Drax at this key time for sustainable energy in the UK.”

She has been appointed as a member of the Company’s Audit Committee.  She will work closely with the current Audit Chair, David Lindsell, in anticipation of her succeeding David  when he steps down in 2019. She has also been appointed as a member of the Company’s Nomination and Remuneration committees.

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Wrigleys Solicitors have announced four promotions in the firm’s Leeds office.

Kate Buckham, Natalie Johnson, Emma Ridge and Joanne Spavin have all been promoted to partners at the firm.

Paul Nash, managing partner, said: “The promotions of Kate, Natalie, Emma and Joanne recognise their excellent reputations in each of their specialist fields. The firm’s decision to promote these able solicitors shows it’s commitment to equality and recognition of ability rather than time spent at the firm.

“In particular, the agricultural team has developed to supply growing demand for its expertise and to ensure long term continuity for clients, as can be seen in these partner promotions and the recent recruitment of Aurea Kevill and Richard Whittaker.”