North East property and energy firm the Banks Group has reinforced its executive team by appointing Simon Fisher as its new group finance director.Simon is joining the Durham-headquartered firm following Richard Dunkley’s move from group finance director to head up Banks’ developing Renewables and Property businesses.
Simon is moving after spending nine years in a similar role at Newcastle International Airport, during which time he was part of the senior team behind the continued evolution in and expansion of, the Airport’s operations and facilities.
Simon’s new role covers every part of the Banks Group’s surface mining, renewable energy and property development operations, and he will lead the drive to develop financial systems and management information throughout the group, together with contributing to the overall development of the business.
Having spent most of his life in the North East, and with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Manchester University, Simon held roles with PricewaterhouseCoopers in Middlesbrough and Newcastle, and with Domnick Hunter Group plc before moving to the Airport.
Simon Fisher says: “Moving to the Banks Group has given me a fantastic opportunity to go from one well-known and highly regarded North East organisation to another, and the experience of major infrastructure projects I have gained during my time with the Airport will be hugely valuable in my new role.
” I am looking forward to joining in the strategic decision making of this multi-disciplined business and providing the essential investment advice and financial controls to help grow the company.
“It is already clear to me that the Banks Group’s sites are incredibly well run and the team ethos that exists across all operations is fantastic. There’s a genuine pride and enjoyment in being part of the Banks team, and a real commitment at every level to building the business, something to which I hope my new perspectives on our operations will also contribute.”
Founded in 1976 in County Durham, the Banks Group employs 400 people and has a wide-ranging portfolio of projects across Scotland and the North of England.
Harry Banks, founder and chairman at The Banks Group, adds: “The combination of Richard’s move to Renewables and Property and Simon’s appointment as group finance director will strengthen our board immensely, and I am pleased to have Simon join us.”