Meet our friendly team.

Having been actively involved in building businesses, both large and small, over the years, Trevor has a wealth of experience in dealing with companies of all sizes and at all levels.

A highly analytical and customer-focused business adviser, Gemma draws on many years of experience working on the Business Support Helpline and various funding contracts to help businesses like yours navigate the challenges and opportunities you face.

With over 13 years of expertise in business support, Michelle Mann is an invaluable asset as a Business Engagement Officer at Durham Business Growth.

Chris Perry is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience working within SMEs, focusing on business growth and development.

Business Support Specialist Lesley Hawke brings a passion for SME growth and an understanding of business development, marketing strategy and overseas markets to the Programme Team.

Steve Wilkinson, who joined RTC North in October, is an individual with a fervent dedication to the field of manufacturing.

After completing a Maintenance Apprenticeship with Rothmans, Steve then spent the next 17 years in First Tier Automotive supply, climbing the career ladder in two companies, from Production Engineer to First Line Manager to Manufacturing Director.

Graham is an experienced change management consultant with over 15 years working with businesses of all sizes across all sectors to implement change and manage business transformation.

Graham started his own business writing and publishing computer games while studying at Manchester University in the 1980s. In the early 1990s he sold this business to Psygnosis, where he produced games, for instance in the Lemmings series.

After starting his career as an Engineer in Mechatronics in the automotive industry, Graham delivered a highly successful career in trouble-shooting for corporate divisions, eventually leading North American operations of an Automotive tier 1 from $30Mn - $300Mn of acquisition-fuelled growth.

Jo Martin is a dedicated and experienced business engagement officer who focuses on rural businesses. She has a deep understanding of rural and community development and brings a wealth of experience to Durham Business Growth.

Lisa Wall, a seasoned Business Engagement Officer with 18+ years of experience in County Durham, has a rich history of championing local businesses.

Stuart Armstrong brings over 4 years of valuable experience working for Business Durham, Durham County Council's business support service.

Guy Bashford, Business Durham’s business engagement and account manager, drives business growth in County Durham with a career spanning two decades.

With over 30 years of experience, Andrea McGuigan is a dedicated chartered marketer and business development professional.

As an entrepreneur in his own right, James Miller knows first-hand the challenges that can be faced when setting up a business and can call on his experience when advising other business owners and SMEs.

With the Durham Business Growth programme John’s primary role with be as a Productivity & Growth Advisor working with County Durham business owners, leaders and managers to improve specific business areas.

With the Durham Business Growth programme Andy’s primary role with be as a Productivity & Growth Advisor working with County Durham business owners, leaders and managers to improve specific business areas.

With the Durham Business Growth programme Jims’s primary role with be as a Productivity & Growth Advisor working with County Durham business owners, leaders and managers to improve specific business areas.