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With a deep sense of appreciation, we announce the departure of our CEO, Philip Aldridge. His leadership over the past five years has helped shape NEPIC and we express our gratitude for his commitment and contribution to the organisation. 

Joanne Fryett will assume the role of interim CEO, leading the organisation with continuity and dedication. A full time replacement for Philip will be announced in due course. 

Philip joined NEPIC in April 2012 to help deliver an SME help project. He joined as a chartered engineer with extensive experience in the use of biotechnology to make pharmaceuticals both in the UK and USA. This experience included production manager at a large-scale penicillin asset in Northumberland that was both GMP and COMAH regulated. 

Assuming the role of CEO in April 2018, Philip demonstrated a distinct commitment to directing the organisation’s attention towards the members’ needs. Under his guidance, the organisation has successfully initiated multi-year funding deals with local authorities, eliminating any dependence on European funding streams. 

During his time in charge, Philip played an important part in ensuring the process sector was included in the Tees Valley Freeport and in managing and co-authoring the Tees Valley Decarbonisation Cluster Plan. 

Philip enhanced numerous stakeholder relationships including with the CIA, Innovate UK, and other regional process cluster bodies. He developed strong and effective relationships with many of the regional MPs and was invited to speak at the Palace of Westminster on multiple occasions. 

Philip recognised the need to refresh the Tees Valley process sector by highlighting its many strengths and aligning them with emerging markets, particularly those associated with decarbonisation and new technologies. He was instrumental in initiating the process mapping of the Tees Valley cluster and the development of a ‘Cluster Plan’ that will go beyond decarbonisation. 

In the north of the region, Philip has established robust relationships with local government, aiming to support in funding negotiations to add to NEPIC’s commitment to the important pharmaceutical manufacturing sector. 

As Philip moves on to pursue other interests, he does so with confidence in the continued development and improvement of NEPIC by our dedicated team. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Philip for his invaluable contributions and wish him the very best for the future. 

Regards, 

Roger Kilburn 
Chair of NEPIC Board