Safe and Sound appoints new deputy CEO
Safe and Sound, Derbyshire’s specialist charity supporting young people affected by child exploitation, has appointed Tina Green as its new deputy chief executive officer.
Tina Green brings with her a wealth of experience and a proven track record of leadership from the public sector. Her career to date spans 22 years in Derbyshire Constabulary in various investigative roles, including human trafficking, exploitation and county lines. More recently, Tina spent eight years running her own floristry business, which she started from scratch after successfully retraining at Broomfield College.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Tina to Safe and Sound as Deputy CEO,” said Mark Richardson, chair of Safe and Sound’s Board of Trustees. “Her extensive background in understanding complex issues like child exploitation, coupled with her passion for making a difference in the community, makes her an exceptional fit to support Safe and Sound, which has seen an incredible growth of the team over the past three years to meet the increasing demand for our support of young people.”
Tina’s journey to Safe and Sound is driven by a deep personal commitment to helping vulnerable young people. “I have always supported Safe and been impressed with the valuable work they do,” said Tina.
“When I saw the role of deputy come up, I literally felt something light up inside me. I miss working with people and families and this is the perfect opportunity for me to make a difference and give something back. Safe and Sound’s values align with my own, and career wise it is the perfect next step.”
Describing her leadership style as built on mutual respect, Tina believes in leading by example and not being afraid to get stuck in or get her hands dirty. She emphasises the importance of strong leadership, creating partnerships, and collaboration between statutory agencies, businesses and charities, to empower staff and best meet the needs of young people and families.
Looking ahead, Tina has clear priorities for her first six months. “My first job is to get to know the team and understand all of the work that Safe and Sound do, with a longer-term hope of maximising awareness and support in the county of Derbyshire.”
Clinigen appoints experienced pharma leader as non-executive chair
Clinigen, the Burton pharmaceutical services group, has appointed seasoned biopharma executive Paul Carter as non-executive chair of its board.
This appointment strengthens the board and positions Clinigen for its next phase of growth and ongoing transformation.
Paul brings unparalleled commercial and strategic expertise to Clinigen, with nearly 30 years of global biopharmaceutical industry leadership experience. He has lived and worked extensively across North America, Europe, and Asia, building a proven track record in strategic commercial and leadership roles.
His experience includes serving as executive vice president and chief commercial officer at Gilead Sciences where he oversaw global commercial operations, international expansion across 38 markets, and $30 billion in annual revenue. He also held senior leadership roles including head of GlaxoSmithKline China and head of SmithKline Beecham Russia.
Alongside his executive career, Paul has built an extensive portfolio of board and advisory roles. He currently serves as chair of the Memo Therapeutics AG board and, separately, the Kyowa Kirin International PLC board, and is also board director at Immatics NV.
Beyond this, Paul advises several global healthcare investors and innovative life sciences companies, including Astorg Partners, Concentric Analgesics Inc. and Magdalen Medical Publishing Ltd. He also advises and coaches senior BioPharma executives via GLG Institute and Pioneering Collective.
Over his career spanning a diverse range of therapeutic areas, commercial models, and international markets, Paul has built and scaled operations worldwide, overseen the launch of market-leading pharmaceutical products, and led the development of strategic global partnerships – all of which will be instrumental as Clinigen enters its next phase of transformation and growth.
Paul Carter, non-executive board chair, said: “I am incredibly excited to join Clinigen at such a dynamic time in its journey. The company has a unique and essential role to play in improving access to innovative medicines worldwide.
“I look forward to working with the Board and management team to strengthen our strategic foundations, accelerate our transformation, and help unlock the next phase of growth and success, delivering exceptional value to clients and patients.”
Architecturally renowned Derby building to be sold
The iconic Olivetti Building in Derby, one of only four similar buildings within the United Kingdom and renowned for its distinctive 1970s design, is to be sold with a £1m price tag.
Originally designed by the legendary architect Edward Cullinan, for the Italian typewriter manufacturer Olivetti, the building reflects a legacy of innovation, with its bold, modernist architecture and forward-thinking open-plan layout.
Its clean lines, clerestory windows, and thoughtful integration with the surrounding environment set it apart as a design-led workplace well ahead of its time.
In recent years, the 1.02-acre site has been modernised and repurposed by Fresh Logistics, a UK temperature-controlled courier service. The company’s founder, Alan White, acquired and redeveloped the site in 2015, transforming it into a logistics hub while preserving its architectural integrity.
“We’ve always seen the Olivetti Building as more than just a workplace – it’s a piece of design history,” said Alan White. “We’ve invested in making it both functional and inspirational, blending heritage with high-performance business infrastructure. Now it’s time for the next chapter.”
The current layout includes fully serviced offices, meeting rooms, conference facilities, and a purpose-built logistics centre. There’s also scope for further development, subject to planning.
Walk away with a prize worth £20,000 at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
With the East Midlands Bricks Awards set to be bigger and better than ever this year, there’s also a grand prize worth £20,000 on offer.
Celebrating the region’s property and construction industry, the prestigious event recognises development projects, businesses, and people in commercial and public building – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes, schools and public spaces.
We also highlight the work of architects, agencies and those behind large schemes – and the Overall Winner at the event, sponsored by SEV, will be awarded a year of marketing/publicity with Business Link worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of your choice.
A highlight in the business calendar, winners will be revealed at the East Midlands Bricks Awards’ 10th annual awards ceremony on Thursday 2nd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening of celebration and networking with property and construction professionals from across the East Midlands.
Attendees will also hear from Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands, our keynote speaker.
To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page.
Categories include:
New for this year, all entrants will also have the opportunity to be featured on our dedicated nominee showcase on the East Midlands Business Link website, providing space for marketing your achievements. Upon submitting a nomination, we will get in touch for any information, imagery, and video nominees would like to be featured on their showcase page.
With a limited number of sponsorship opportunities remaining, please contact Angie Cooper at a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk to learn more if you are interested in becoming an East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 sponsor.
- Contractor of the Year
- Developer of the Year
- Architects of the Year
- Most Active Agent
- Deal of the Year
- Residential Development of the Year
- Sustainable Development of the Year
- Commercial Development of the Year
- Excellence in Design
- Responsible Business of the Year
- Overall Winner (this award cannot be entered, with all finalists having the chance to take home the Overall Winner award)
Nominations will close on Friday 15th August.
The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) Where: Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands Tickets: Available here Dress code: Standard business attire Thanks to our sponsors:
To be held at:
With a limited number of sponsorship opportunities remaining, please contact Angie Cooper at a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk to learn more if you are interested in becoming an East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 sponsor. Electric vehicle charging rollout targets underserved areas
North East Lincolnshire Council is set to invest nearly £1.5 million in expanding its electric vehicle charging infrastructure, aiming to install between 300 and 600 new charge points across the region.
The project will focus on locations with limited or no access to off-street parking, using a mix of lamp-post chargers, standalone pedestals, and units in public car parks. The initiative is backed by funding from the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV), part of the UK Government’s broader strategy to support the transition to electric transport.
The rollout signals growing demand for public-private collaboration on electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, especially in areas underserved by traditional charging options. It also aligns with regional net-zero ambitions and could present future opportunities for contractors, technology providers, and maintenance services involved in clean transport solutions.
Fusion energy plant secures major public investment
The UK government has pledged an additional £2.5bn in funding for the development of the world’s first prototype fusion power station, to be built at the former West Burton A coal plant site in Nottinghamshire. UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd, a subsidiary of the UK Atomic Energy Authority, leads the STEP (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production) facility.
This financial commitment is part of a wider industrial strategy goal to establish the UK as a global leader in clean energy innovation. The STEP programme aims to transition fusion energy from experimental research to commercial viability, with the first operations targeted for 2040.
The Midlands-based project is expected to generate over 10,000 jobs, spanning construction, advanced engineering, and long-term operational roles. Its underlying technology involves fusing hydrogen isotopes, deuterium and tritium, at extremely high temperatures using magnetic confinement, generating energy that can be converted into electricity.
Fusion energy has long been regarded as a potential cornerstone of net-zero ambitions due to its minimal environmental impact and virtually limitless fuel supply. The STEP plant is positioned as a strategic move to accelerate private sector investment and spin-off innovations across the UK clean tech and high-value manufacturing sectors.
Louise Lane of Wright Vigar named Citywealth International Woman of the Year – FinTech/Crypto
Louise Lane, of Independent Chartered Accountants Wright Vigar, has been awarded Woman of the Year – FinTech/Crypto at the Citywealth Powerwoman Awards International 2025. This esteemed recognition is a testament to Louise’s exceptional contributions and leadership in the Crypto sector.
The Citywealth Powerwoman awards acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of outstanding women internationally across various industries. Louise’s remarkable expertise and dedication in the field of FinTech and Crypto have set her apart as one of the industry’s most influential leaders.
As a valued member of Wright Vigar, Louise has consistently showcased a unique blend of technical acumen, strategic thinking, and exceptional problem-solving skills. Her relentless pursuit of innovation and commitment to driving growth have not only elevated Wright Vigar’s position in the market but have also made a significant impact on the wider FinTech and Crypto landscape.
Her leadership has played a pivotal role in paving the way for the firm’s success in an ever-evolving industry. Louise’s ability to identify emerging trends and navigate the complexities of the digital landscape has positioned her as a pioneer and an inspiration to professionals within the sector.
Louise’s expertise and in-depth knowledge of FinTech and Crypto have also made her a sought-after speaker and influencer at various industry events and conferences. Her commitment to thought leadership and her ability to communicate complex concepts in a clear and accessible manner have elevated her to become a significant and influential figure within the industry.
Upon receiving the Citywealth Woman of the Year – FinTech/Crypto award, Louise Lane expressed her gratitude, saying: “I am honoured and humbled to be recognised for this prestigious award. This recognition would not have been possible without the support of my team at Wright Vigar and the opportunities they have given me.”
Wright Vigar expands Newark office with key new appointments
Wright Vigar, an independent chartered accountancy firm, has announced the continued growth and development of its Newark office with the addition of two experienced professionals to its team.
The firm has welcomed Phil Ball as associate director and Kim Beggs as senior business services advisor, strengthening its capacity to serve clients throughout the region.
Phil Ball joins Wright Vigar from local firm Barker Maule and Co, where he built an impressive 16-year career. Phil brings extensive experience managing a diverse portfolio of clients ranging from sole traders to limited companies, providing comprehensive accounting and taxation advice.
Kim Beggs brings valuable international experience to the team, having completed a three-year accountancy learnership in South Africa before immigrating to the UK in 2017. Kim’s broad knowledge base across various accounting disciplines makes her a versatile addition to the Wright Vigar team.
Paul Colcomb, director at Wright Vigar, said: “We are delighted to welcome Phil and Kim to our growing Newark team. Their combined expertise and experience perfectly complement our existing capabilities and will be instrumental in helping us continue to provide exceptional service to our clients. These appointments reflect our ongoing commitment to investing in talented professionals who share our values and dedication to client success.”
The addition of these key team members brings the Newark office to a total of 18 professionals, further enhancing Wright Vigar’s ability to provide its comprehensive range of traditional accountancy services alongside specialist offerings in tax, cryptocurrency and business advisory services designed to help businesses achieve their goals.
Plans revealed for multi-million-pound Kirkby residential scheme
A development of new, affordable homes will be built on disused land in Kirkby-in-Ashfield under plans from Ashfield District Council.
The authority wants to purchase a 19-acre site off Southwell Lane, between the railway line and Low Moor Road.
The purchase is dependent upon planning permission being granted for a new housing development, which would see around 70 new affordable homes built. The land will be paid for using money from housing developers.
Ashfield District Council hopes to secure millions of pounds in funding from Homes England to help pay for the estimated £16 million development. The costs will then be paid back over 40 years from rents received.
The disused site was originally railway sidings and contained a small warehouse in the early 2000s. All the buildings have since been demolished and the land is classed as a brownfield site.
Cllr Tom Hollis, executive lead member for strategic housing and climate change, said: “These are exciting plans which again illustrate our ongoing commitment to continue building more affordable homes for people across Ashfield.
“Our Corporate Plan includes an objective to ensure every resident has access to a suitable and appropriate home. This new development will be our largest to date and see disused land brought back into use for housing, in the heart of Kirkby.”
£2m pay out for 10,000 Wilko workers
Almost 10,000 Wilko workers will share a pay out of £2m after GMB won a legal case.
A judgement handed down by the Employment Tribunal this week ruled that Wilko had failed to properly consult with workers prior to going bust in 2023.
As a result, around 9,000 former staff who worked in a store with 20 or more people will get 4 days pay, while roughly 1,100 who worked in a distribution centre or support centre role will get 13 days pay.
The case was taken on by GMB on behalf of thousands of members who lost their job when the discount store went into administration.
David Bartlett, former Wilko worker and GMB rep, said: “It has been a long, hard, slog getting this money – the very least Wilko workers deserve after the way they were treated.
“In no way will this make up for the stress and anxiety they faced during those dark days in 2023.
“But GMB hopes it will give them a much-needed boost as they move on with their new lives and careers.”
