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Chemical-industry body and member organisation, NEPIC, is seeking a new leader following the announcement that chief executive officer, Dr. Stan Higgins, will retire in the summer.

Dr. Higgins has spearheaded the North-East Process Industry Cluster since its inception in 2004, following the merger of the Wilton-based Teesside Chemical Initiative and the then recently formed Pharmaceutical & Speciality Cluster.

Thirteen years on and, through the delivery of industry growth strategies, NEPIC has grown into one of the UK’s key industry-led, economic cluster bodies.

Stan’s leadership has assisted to the contribution of more than £3 billion of GVA to the North East and UK economies. The firm has also assisted in more than 90 process-sector investments totaling £4 billion and secured some 5,000 jobs.

Furthermore, NEPIC went on to became the first UK Cluster body to receive European Union accreditation for Cluster Management Excellence – and, in 2014, Higgins was personally honoured by the European Commission and awarded European Union Cluster Manager of Year.

The private, member-owned not-for-profit firm supports the region’s chemical-using industries and associated supply chain.

Together with their 300+ member companies, they work to build upon the already powerful industrial base located in North East England to make this region one of the most competitive and successful chemical-processing locations in Europe.

As the Cluster moves into this new phase in the company’s history, they seek a dynamic, experienced chief executive to fulfil this high-profile role and lead NEPIC into its next period of growth and impact.

NEPIC Chair, Ian Swales, said:

“Stan is widely respected throughout the process sector and has done a truly outstanding job in bringing NEPIC to where it is today. Stan is a tough act to follow but has left an exciting opportunity for the next chief executive.”

Outgoing chief executive, Dr. Stan Higgins, commented:

“With the fantastic support of our members, we have managed to keep this business in surplus since its inception; with all profits being directed into activities to promote and grow the process industries in North East England.

“The new CEO will have a great time representing a great industry which is always looking towards rejuvenation and growth.”

External URL: www.nepic.co.uk/ceo