North East BIC (Business and Innovation Centre) has appointed Brett Griffiths as its new Chief Executive Officer.
He’s joining BIC from BIC – the stationery, lighters and shavers group, where he’s currently General Manager for the UK, Ireland, NORDICS and DACH.
Originally from South Africa, he has spent more than 26 years in executive commercial leadership roles around the world, most of those at BIC, but also Mondelez International.
He settled in County Durham in 2020, volunteering on the board of Enactus UK, part of a global non-profit organisation that supports university students to create meaningful social impact through sustainable entrepreneurship.
North East BIC was set up in 1994 to support entrepreneurs, with workspaces, business advice, events and community. The not-for-profit social enterprise has helped launch more than 7000 business since then.
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“The North East BIC is a purpose-driven organisation, which aligns perfectly with my values, and I look forward to working with our talented team to build upon its fantastic legacy. It’s a really exciting time for the organisation and the North East region,” he said.
“We can see accelerating commercial confidence and inward investment in the North East of England. However, if these developments are to truly deliver for the region, then we must ensure that the benefits are felt across our communities, and this is why organisations such as the North East BIC are so important.
“Over the coming years, the organisation is set to play a pivotal role in providing the support and workspace required to help the region’s businesses start up, scale and grow. It’s a commercial organisation which has such a positive social impact, that was my catalyst to come here.”
He will replace Paul McEldon as CEO of North East BIC, when he joins in October. McEldon will help with the transition ahead of his retirement.
“We are delighted that Brett has agreed to join the North East BIC as our new Chief Executive,” added Kevan Carrick, Chair of the North East BIC.
“Throughout his distinguished career, he has become one of the most respected figures in his field, demonstrating an incredible ability to drive both business and social growth.
“I am delighted that, at a time when global uncertainty and a strained economy can impact the development and growth of SMEs and their subsequent scale up, Brett will bring his skills and commitment to drive forward our emerging strategy. This will help us build upon the successes that the North East BIC has achieved so far.
“On behalf of the Board, I welcome Brett to the team and look forward to forging a dynamic future together.”
