Paul Pointon

BECBC Chair

Paul is Vice President of Amentum, previously known as AECOM when it was a Tier 1 Parent Body Organisation (PBO) partner responsible for the Management and Operation of the Sellafield and LLWR sites. From 2008 until 2021, he was an integral part of the highly successful LLWR Executive team, concluding the last three years of the PBO tenure as CEO.

He has considerable experience in developing and implementing Transformation and Acquisition strategies that involve and support successful supply chain delivery as well as creating the right environment for SME’s to grow and thrive.

Paul wants to help members forge alliances that open doors to business and successful outcomes for all involved. He was appointed to the board in 2023 and as chair in 2024.

Andrew Clitheroe

BECBC Financial Director

A Chartered Accountant, Andrew is Finance Director of Carrs Engineering, a division of Carr’s Group Plc and headquartered in Cumbria, Carrs Engineering constitutes seven global businesses with a wide portfolio of products and services supporting the Civil Nuclear, Nuclear Defence and Oil and Gas Markets.

Andrew joined the board of BECBC in 2020 and ratified again in 2023.

If you would like to understand how the cluster can support the growth of your business, both within Cumbria and globally, Andrew will be happy to help.

Tom Scaife

BECBC Legal Director

Tom started looking after the legal affairs for BECBC in 2014, initially as part of the Management Team, before stepping up to Director in 2019. He was again ratified at the AGM in 2022. Tom is an Employment Law specialist and Partner with business law firm Baines Wilson, advising businesses on managing employees. Contact Tom to learn more about how the Cluster can support you.

Ruth Sellick

BECBC Deputy Chair

Ruth joined the main board in 2020, after being the Chair of the BECBC Shadow Board since 2019 and was re-elected by members in 2023. Ruth is Orano’s Marketing and Communications executive in the UK and also sits on the newly-formed Nextgen Nuclear Industry Council, alongside co-ordinating the UK Nuclear Regions Collaboration that was formed at 2019’s successful Global Reach Conference. Please don’t hesitate to contact Ruth for any information about BECBC.

Peter Fleming

BECBC Director

With 30 years of business experience Peter has his own Business Consultancy helping businesses improve their business, work/life balance and see the value in investing in their people. Peter was elected onto the board in 2019 and re-elected in 2022 and has helped the board with the strategic position of the cluster. If you are looking for some business advice or how the cluster can help develop your business Peter would be more than happy to point you in the right direction.

Rhianna Smith

Shadow Board Chair

Rhianna joined the BECBC Shadow Board in 2020, and took on the position as Chair in 2022 which includes being co-opted onto the main board. Rhianna works at Centre for Leadership Performance as a Project Co-ordinator, supporting young people in their Early Careers, helping them with their next steps and providing development opportunities.

Rhianna is passionate about promoting the area as a place of vast opportunity for young professionals, and believes it is vital to attract, and retain, talent in Cumbria, something which the Shadow Board champion. As Chair, Rhianna is keen to increase the profile of the Shadow Board and ensure more young people have their voices heard in key conversations.

Lee Grears

BECBC Director

Lee is the founder and managing director of Responsive Ltd and Flawed Ltd. Lee was first elected onto the board in 2021 then re-elected in 2024 and has a vested interest in Cumbria and its future prosperity for future generations. Lee is responsible for the daily operations of his companies with a keen interest in the strategic planning. Lee’s passion is micro, small to medium enterprise businesses and new start-ups and believes it is the collaboration of those companies that can drive the success of Cumbrian business. Talk to Lee about SME collaboration in the area

Vicky Brown

Board Director

Vicky is the MD of No Name Travel where she has gained invaluable experience in building and growing a successful company.

Vicky is looking to build on BECBC's success by offering an unparalleled networking opportunity with a wide range of contacts not available to other members of BECBC. She has worked with hundreds of businesses across the county and looks forward to bringing them into BECBC as active members, not just paid subscribers. She's also looking forward to being part of a strong SME voice on the board.

Vicky says "As a cluster member, I have experienced many benefits, I believe that giving back is essential. I am willing to be generous with my time and help in any way I can."

John Clarke

Patron

With 40 years experience in the nuclear industry including as Deputy MD of Sellafield and CEO of NDA as well as being former President of the Nuclear Institute and a Fellow of Nuclear Institute and Institution of Chemical Engineers John brings strong knowledge of the sector.

He is now a Non Executive Director in rail, precision manufacturing, engineering consultancy and infrastructure sectors bringing learning from other industries.

In Cumbria he is Chair of trustees of Rosehill Arts Trust Ltd.

Hayley Critchley

Non-Executive Board Director

Hayley has recently joined Sizewell C Nuclear New Build Project, as Head of Site Compliance. Hayley brings with her a breadth of both Nuclear and Construction experience, having spent her early career working in London on a variety of complex, high hazard and multi-cultural construction projects. She moved over into the nuclear industry 22 years ago and has held a variety of Safety, Environment, and Nuclear Compliance leadership positions.

Rhianna Smith

Shadow Board Chair

Rhianna joined the BECBC Shadow Board in 2020, and took on the position as Chair in 2022 which includes being co-opted onto the main board. Rhianna works at Centre for Leadership Performance as a Project Co-ordinator, supporting young people in their Early Careers, helping them with their next steps and providing development opportunities.

Rhianna is passionate about promoting the area as a place of vast opportunity for young professionals, and believes it is vital to attract, and retain, talent in Cumbria, something which the Shadow Board champion. As Chair, Rhianna is keen to increase the profile of the Shadow Board and ensure more young people have their voices heard in key conversations.

James Harrison

Shadow Board Deputy Chair

James joined the Shadow Board in March 2022 and became Deputy Chair in March 2024. He is currently a Procurement Officer at Altrad Babcock working as part of the Programme and Project Partners (PPP) which is currently leading the UK’s infrastructure projects.

He has previously been involved in structures such as student councils through sixth form where he was head boy. Currently a member of the Dream Placement alumni which he takes great pride in as they helped him secure work experience with Doosan Babcock where he is now employed. He is also a member of the Cumbria Future Leaders network where he helps to promote being ambitious, taking opportunities and, the benefits of apprenticeships.

Jake Iceton

Shadow Board

Jake joined the Shadow Board in 2022 and is currently employed by Magnox Ltd as a System Engineer. Jake has supported numerous voluntary programmes such as Go4Set and First Lego League to further develop the next generation to grow their professional skills through hands-on STEM learning and is looking forward to continuing this work as part pf the shadow board. In addition to this Jake is driven to provide further exposure to Cumbria, promoting the area as a place to do business and gain new skills and experience.

Georgia Routledge-Moore

Shadow Board

Georgia is the Office Manager at Indelible Data Ltd, a Cyber Security company based in West Cumbria. She is currently doing a Project Management degree apprenticeship through the University of Cumbria.

In June, Indelible Data won the BECBC 2022 Developing the Next Generation Award, this is an area Georgia feels passionate about having been given the opportunity to progress in the company since becoming an apprentice in 2018. Georgia has been involved in a number of events in local schools including assemblies promoting a career in cyber.

Issy Shannon

Shadow Board

After completing a masters in sustainability, Issy works for Bechtel on the PFCS project at Sellafield as a graduate sustainability project manager. Issy joined the Shadow Board in 2022 and says: “I am excited to look at BECBCs sustainability and social values work and continue to promote businesses in Cumbria.

Anthony Moffitt

Shadow Board

Anthony is a Senior Project Engineer with a deep-rooted passion for the nuclear industry. His journey began as an apprentice within Balfour Beatty Kilpatrick's off-site fabrication unit, and has spent several years developing his skills and expertise in this dynamic field. Throughout Anthony's career, he has been fortunate to work on a wide range of projects within the nuclear industry. From the very beginning, being driven by a commitment to innovation.

As an engineer, Anthony brings extensive knowledge and a leadership skillset to the Shadow Board. Anthony looks forward to working alongside fellow members of the Shadow Board to deliver value adding tasks to all of our members, whilst leaving a positive legacy within the local community.

Beyond Anthony's professional endeavours, he is dedicated to giving back to his local community. Volunteering his time to mentor aspiring engineers and participating in industry events to foster knowledge sharing and collaboration.

Abigail Symons

Shadow Board

Abi joined the Shadow Board in 2023 and is currently on the environmental graduate scheme at Sellafield Ltd working as a Graduate Environmental Advisor. She has recently completed a Masters in Geological Sciences.

Abi is passionate about the protection of our environment and ensuring the next generation have the skills and knowledge to build on the progress that has been made so far to improve the environment for future generations. A big part of this involves hands on learning and education at all levels. In support of this Abi has been involved in volunteering with STEM education in schools. She is hoping to help in raise awareness of the Shadow Board so it can reach a wider audience within the young professional population of West Cumbria.

Raife Cooper

Shadow Board

Raife is the Digital Marketing Officer at the National Skills Academy Nuclear (NSAN) and joined the Shadow Board in July 2023. He is passionate about equality, diversity & inclusion (ED&I) and attends conferences to keep up to date on ED&I on goings within the sector, and support NSAN in its activities.

Raife graduated from Liverpool John Moores’ University with a BA Hons degree in Graphic Design & Illustration in 2021, ­and joined NSAN to work within the communications team. As the Digital Marketing Officer, Raife is responsible for developing and executing digital marketing strategies to promote NSAN's services and events, as well as managing the company’s social media. During his time at NSAN, Raife has become and integral part of the event team for the UK Nuclear Skills Awards and has had the pleasure of attending many exciting events within the nuclear industry, including visiting Parliament on several occasions.

Jess Blacklock

Shadow Board

Jess is employed by Lakes College as an Enrichment and Engagement Coach. She is passionate about the young people of West Cumbria and has organised numerous enrichment activities and events to help them on their journey to become young professionals and see what opportunities are on offer to them. Jess is excited to see how Lakes College and BECBC can work together to inspire Cumbria's next generation.

After leaving college Jess was a Customer Service Apprentice at a local secondary school, during this she found that she was drawn towards the pastoral / extra-curricular side of education.

Bridget Dempsey

Shadow Board

Bridget works for Newsquest Cumbria as the Chief Reporter for the Times and Star newspaper and Nuclear Correspondent for business magazine in-Cumbria.

Bridget is passionate about promoting the nuclear industry in Cumbria through her role on the in-Cumbria magazine and has spent the last three years writing about the many businesses within the Cumbrian supply-chain.

After completing a degree in Journalism at the University of Central Lancashire she returned home and has enjoyed working on the many Newsquest Cumbria titles promoting the people of what she believes is the ‘best county in the world’ ever since.

A proud West Cumbrian, Bridget is passionate about helping other young people in the area and beyond understand all the options they have to reach their full potential and is looking forward to working with the shadow board to continue it’s work in progressing these aims.

Dianne Richardson

Chief Executive

Dianne is the Britain's Energy Coast Cluster Chief Executive responsible for developing and delivering the business plan. She previously attended Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster meetings for around 8 years representing various employers and was elected to the board in 2019 following some time as the Chair of the BECBC Social Value Group completing 4 years of volunteer contribution in June 2021 when she was appointed to her current role. A social value expert and lifelong learner herself she is a supporter of the cluster’s engagement in schools. She's keen to receive feedback and ideas from cluster members.

John Grainger

BECBC Executive Director

John Grainger is Executive Director at BECBC, who he joined in 2016 after a 25 year career in economic development specialising in inward investment. Prior to that he ran retail travel companies in the North East and has been involved in administration at county level on both tennis and cricket. He has a Master's Degree from the University of Northumbria, is an Honorary Fellow of the University of Cumbria and in 2019 was the first recipient of the Robin Burgess Lifetime Achievement to Cumbria Award.

Liz Bowe

BECBC Member Opportunity Consultant

Liz is a long term member and supported of the cluster, and an experienced management professional. Liz supports BECBC and its members by sourcing opportunities for our membership. If you are looking for a new opportunity or to break into a new sector speak to Liz.

Ellen Muncaster

Membership Secretary

Ellen is the Membership Secretary for Britain's Energy Coast Business Cluster, dealing with membership enquiries, renewals and finding resolutions to any problems. Ellen has a background working in finance, previously working as a Tax Assistant and holds a degree in Business, Accounting & Finance.

Sharon Brook

BECBC Ambassador of the Year

Sharon Brook has been a part of the hospitality industry for almost 40 years, working for both large hotel groups and smaller bespoke venues, as well as a “stint” with the Chamber of Commerce. On joining the Daniel Thwaites Group at North Lakes Hotel in 2018, as Head of Sales, she quickly came across BECBC whilst trying to find a route to connecting with local businesses from across Cumbria, having previously been based in Lancashire. Since then she has taken on board another property for her Group in Ambleside, Windermere - Langdale Chase - and, through her commitment and support of her fellow members was recently awarded the first BECBC Ambassador Award.

Rosie Graves

Communications Lead

Marketing is an ever-changing industry! I strive to keep ahead of the latest trends and think outside the box when it comes to new ideas. I am the social media management geek of the squad, analytics are my guilty pleasure. I am organised, approachable and highly motivated to provide the best service possible to our clients. With two young children, working is often my escape but if I am not working or with my family, you will find me running the streets of Wigton

Samantha Down

PR Lead

Samantha loves people and she loves to tell stories. She's been doing it for years: first as a newspaper journalist, then as a broadcast journalist at ITV Border (did you think she looked familiar?) and more recently at Copeland Borough Council as it transitioned to Cumberland Council. Within a few minutes of meeting her you'll have told her your life story and she'll have picked out the bits to tell the world to get your business noticed. Away from work, Samantha, her husband and two girls are busy ticking off the Wainwrights.

Alex Scott

Nuclear Regional Representative

As the public face of Mammoet in Nuclear I have been attending the BECBC group meetings for the past three years. Here I am frequently engaged in interesting conversations where the passion, skills and commitment of the companies within Britain's Energy Coast are well demonstrated. Cumbria has been good to both Mammoet and myself and I am keen to repay that success supporting the fantastic team within the BECBC. Working alongside Emma Jayne-Gooch my aim is to help extend the reach of the BECBC, bringing knowledge of wider opportunities to the cluster and aiding in promoting the talents prevalent in the region.

As Sellafield and NRS move along their decommissioning pathway and our existing generation plants defuel and phase across to join the NDAs fleet a new breed of challenges we have never faced will come to the market. The UK remains at the forefront of decommissioning, new build giga watt and Small Modular Reactor advancement and I want to ensure that our businesses are not only bit part involved in solving these challenges but are leading and pioneering solutions which can bring future business and prosperity both here and, where the appetite is big enough, across the globe.

Cath Howard

Social Value Group Chair

Cath has over 25 years of experience in the Not for Profit (Community, Voluntary and Social Enterprise) sector and within local government regeneration. Cath’s current role is Social Impact Manager for the Box Encapsulation Plant (BEP) working for Jacobs and Balfour Beatty since January 2020. This involves getting businesses to support communities through provision of apprenticeships, employment and training opportunities, increasing corporate volunteering, working together with schools to support them reaching their Gatsby benchmarking, whilst working in partnership across the nuclear supply chain to make a greater impact. Cath has been a supporter of the BECBC Social Value Group since joining in early 2020.

Cath was previously Chief Operating Officer for Cumbria Community Foundation, managing the grants team as well as leading on the Transforming West Cumbria bid to Sellafield Ltd.

Cath is passionate about making a difference in local communities and recognises that the business sector can play an important part in social change.

Deborah Naylor

Social Value Group Chair

Deborah is the Area Operations Manager for Inspira, a Cumbrian based charity that provides careers advice and personal development opportunities for school and college students and unemployed adults. In her spare time, she is a governor at St Joseph's Catholic High School and a Trustee at Whitehaven Harbour Youth Project; a youth work organisation providing activities for children and also young adults with disabilities. She is passionate about the development of the local area for the benefit of the community and especially those who are disadvantaged.

Peter Fleming

BECBC Director

With 30 years of business experience Peter has his own Business Consultancy helping businesses improve their business, work/life balance and see the value in investing in their people. Peter was elected onto the board in 2019 and re-elected in 2022 and has helped the board with the strategic position of the cluster. If you are looking for some business advice or how the cluster can help develop your business Peter would be more than happy to point you in the right direction.

Jo Telfer

Chair, Organisational Health for Performance Group

An Organisational Psychologist by trade, Jo has over 25 years’ experience in Behavioural and Cultural change.

Jo is currently Head of Behavioural Insights at Sellafield Ltd, and has particular interests in the psychology of teams and how organisational identity changes over time.

Emma Jayne Gooch

Nuclear Group Chair

Emma Jayne has extensive experience in the nuclear sector. Having held the role of Head of Supply Chain Development and Innovation at Sellafield Ltd, Emma-Jayne wrote the company’s first SME Strategy and organised events for the supply chain, including Director’s Forums and SME forums.

She believes that collaboration is at the heart of nuclear success in the region, saying: “I am passionate about making nuclear opportunities visible to the supply chain to help them understand where they will win work and who they need to speak to. I want to create a collaborative environment where members work together to share opportunities to place contracts and to build relationships for bidding.

“I also want to encourage large organisations to share their procurement opportunities. In the nuclear sector group we have a ready-made supply chain that can deliver the majority of the requirements, but they need to know how to access them.”