People: South Yorkshire Pensions Authority; Thrive Law; Specialist Glass Products; and more

South Yorkshire Pensions Authority (SYPA), a public body responsible for running the £11.1bn South Yorkshire Pension Fund, has appointed Jonathan Hunt to join Aoifinn Devitt to complete its team of Independent Investment Advisers.

The Independent Advisers play an important role in providing challenge to the authority’s internal team in the development of the Investment Strategy.

They also provide additional knowledge and experience to assist in the oversight of fund manager performance including that of Border to Coast which now manages nearly 80% of the Authority’s assets.

Chair of the authority, Councillor Jayne Dunn, said: “We had a very high-quality field of candidates for the role of independent adviser and Jonathan’s mix of specific investment experience and knowledge of the Local Government Pension Scheme marked him out as an exceptional candidate.

“Members of the authority are really looking forward to working with Jonathan and Aoifinn as we review our investment strategy in the light of the actuarial valuation which will take place next March.”

Hunt brings a wealth of experience to role, as both an adviser and investment banker.

He brings significant expertise from his role as chief investment officer (CIO) for multiple LGPS funds, where he advised on economic and strategic asset allocation, corporate governance, and risk management.

He has a high level of knowledge of asset classes and has a background in corporate finance, having worked across both public and private sectors.

And he brings experience in advising pension funds, helping to shape policies, analyse investment opportunities, and monitor the performance of asset managers.

Hunt said: “As someone who has worked extensively with pension funds across both the public and private sectors, I am pleased to be joining South Yorkshire Pensions Authority as their independent investment adviser.

“SYPA has a reputation for being a well-run, forward-thinking fund and I am looking forward to working with the team to help ensure we continue delivering strong, sustainable investment outcomes for members while navigating the evolving economic landscape.”

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Emma Peckover

Leeds-based Thrive Law has expanded its team with three new hires. 

Emma Peckover joins as the new marketing manager, bringing with her 18 years of experience in both B2B and B2C marketing. 

Her skill set includes digital strategy, campaign management, and organising high-profile events.

She said: “I’m excited to contribute to Thrive Law’s mission and innovative approach. Their commitment to diversity, inclusion, and well-being is truly inspiring, and it’s fantastic to be part of such a progressive, award-winning firm.”

Laura Williams and Henry Nelson step in as new senior associates, each with a wealth of experience and a shared passion for holistic workplace well-being.

Laura Williams

Williams, a veteran in employment law, comes with notable expertise from her tenure in international law firms and as a senior solicitor. 

She said: “I truly believe that success and productivity for businesses come from creating the right environment for staff to thrive. The inclusive and forward-thinking approach at Thrive Law aligns perfectly with my values.”

Nelson, with five years of experience as a commercial lawyer and co-founder of a creator community, has a passion for mental health advocacy. 

He said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Jodie and the team at Thrive Law.

Henry Nelson

“It is leading the way in terms of  creating a psychologically safe work environment for staff, embracing flexible working, part time and remote working, encouraging staff to pursue ventures outside of work and are also huge advocates around mental wellbeing – which aligns massively with my own interests and what I advocate for.”

Jodie Hill, founder and managing partner, added: “I am incredibly proud and excited about welcoming these three talented individuals to our team.

“In a purpose-driven company like ours, it’s essential that new recruits not only share our values and cultural ethos but also resonate deeply with our vision and mission.

“Their contributions will be vital as we continue our growth journey. This is an important time for both me personally and for the firm as we attract top talent from across the UK.”

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Huddersfield-based glass manufacturer Specialist Glass Products (SGP) has appointed Kevin Small as its new operations director following a £1.75m investment into the business to enhance production capabilities.

SGP specialises in curved, flat, and custom-made toughened and laminated glass products.

These are used in various applications, including building facades, balustrades, spiral stairs, and shopfronts throughout the UK, Europe, and the United States.

Small brings nearly two decades of experience in the glass manufacturing industry, having spent 19 years with a Dundee-based company specialising in sealed unit glass manufacturing.

In his new role he will oversee all aspects of production operations. His responsibilities will include implementing production strategies, managing the production team, and driving process improvements.

Over the past 24 months, SGP has completed over 26,500 orders. With Small on board, the firm says it can better manage increasing demand while ensuring teams stay aligned with shared goals.

Alongside Small’s appointment, the glass manufacturing company has seen its workforce expand significantly in recent months.

The roles of assistant works manager, quality assistant, transport, dispatch, and production administrator have also been key additions to the team. Small’s hiring sees SGP’s workforce increase to 102.

Andrew Taylor, managing director, said: “Kevin brings abundant expertise in glass manufacturing, which will benefit the company’s growth.

“His experience in operational direction, people management and growth management will be crucial as we continue to expand.”

Small added: “Looking towards the future, a key objective for SGP will be to explore new market opportunities, push the boundaries of glass manufacturing, and place ourselves at the forefront of the industry, and I’m looking forward to being a part of that.”

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Leeds affordable house builder, Adderstone Living, has appointed a new senior executive to continue to drive business development and deliver growth.

Rick Long joins as the regional director for Yorkshire, with a brief to build and raise the Adderstone Living brand across the region and secure its position as the developer of choice for both social housing providers and the supply chain. 

He brings more than 30 years’ experience and expertise in the residential house building sector to the role, working for a number of well-known names, including until recently the Urban Group in York, where he was head of its housing division.

Other senior posts during an extensive career include regional director (Northern) for Tilia Homes, and regional director (Northern) for Kier Living in Leeds. He has also held director roles at Keepmoat Homes and Bovis Homes.

Long’s appointment comes ahead of the opening this October of Adderstone Living’s new Yorkshire regional office in Carrwood Park on the outskirts of Leeds, where he will be based.

New business director, Debbie Hope, said Adderstone Living is ramping up its operations, continuing to expand into Yorkshire.

She said: “Our strength lies in our people and Rick will be a terrific addition to the team.

“With his extensive experience and regional knowledge, he will lead a new phase of growth for us in Yorkshire and with a can-do attitude, I know he will champion the needs of social housing providers and the regional supply chain right across the region. 2025 is already shaping up to be a terrific year to come for us.”

Long added: “I am proud to be appointed to this role and look forward to leading the business in Yorkshire, where there is huge opportunity to develop the quality of the Adderstone Living product.

“I believe strongly in the power of collaboration and will be working closely with all our stakeholders to ensure we continue to deliver for our customers.”