Port of Tyne, one of the UK’s major deep-sea ports, has appointed Ian Finch as Commercial Director for New Business.
Ian’s career began in the metrology, SPC (Statistical Process Control) and industrial automation sectors, where he developed automation solutions for food, beverage, automotive, mining, metals, utilities and fast moving consumer goods industries.
This included 12 years at Rockwell Automation where he managed regional sales teams and worked as National Key Account Manager for several automotive OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers).
In 2008, Ian joined Narec, the National Renewable Energy Centre (now part of ORE Catapult), where he managed major projects to decarbonise social housing and to develop energy master plans for local authorities, including installation of hundreds of electric vehicle charging points.
Later, Ian joined Narec’s Marine and Offshore division, selling its world-leading wind turbine blade and nacelle test facilities to wind, wave and tidal OEMs.
More recently, Ian held Global Business Development positions for Offshore Renewables at DNV and Bureau Veritas – two of the world’s leading Testing Inspection and Classification Societies. He has a passion for clean energy and engineering, and is an active member and past Chairman of the Institution of Engineering and Technology Northumbria Network.
Charlotte Brown, Chief Commercial Officer at Port of Tyne, said:
It is fantastic to have Ian on board, he joins a great team during what is a really exciting time for the Port as we continue to grow across all spheres of our business. Ian’s experience in the offshore renewables sector will be a great addition and bring even more focus during what is a really transformational time for the industry.
Speaking about his appointment, Ian Finch, said:
I am delighted to be joining Port of Tyne at this incredibly exciting time for the energy sector. The Port is positioned to support the renewables industry, from construction to operations and maintenance facilities for offshore wind farms, and is already building a world-class base for SSE Renewables’ & Equinor’s Dogger Bank Wind Farm O&M facility.
With large areas of prime industrial land and deep water quayside access, Port of Tyne is ready to support immediate development for a growing clean energy cluster, including wind turbine OEMs, fabricators, green hydrogen production, and electric vehicle and battery manufacturers.
Ian added:
As a resident of the North East, I am passionate about supporting the creation of a vibrant clean energy cluster and more high-quality jobs. Port of Tyne played a leading role in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Industrial Revolutions through coal mining, steel, ship and car manufacturing industries.
Today, the Port is a leader in the 4th Industrial Revolution supporting the transition to clean energy, electrification of transport and digitalisation, and I’m really looking forward to supporting the region’s growth in these sectors.
