Richard is a respected business leader with over 37 years’ experience in the manufacturing and engineering sectors.

He retired as CEO of Berger Closures UK, in September 2024, previously serving as Berger Group Global Sales Director until December 2022. Working for a stock-listed multinational group based in Germany, he worked extensively across the USA, China, Europe and further afield including Saudi Arabia, India and South Africa.

In February 2023, Richard was appointed a Visiting Professor in the Business & Law Department at Northumbria University.

As CEO of AspireX Business Consulting, he advises and mentors CEOs, Boards,  individuals, businesses, and organisations across the UK and abroad.

He is also Chair of the Advanced Manufacturing Forum (AMF), championing innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth.

Richard has a wealth of experience, insight, and regional pride complimented by significant international business experience across the globe, and held top management positions in the group located in Germany and China

He also works closely with multiple universities, supporting the development of future talent and strengthening links between education and industry. He also sat on the panel of Northern Accelerator, facilitating funding for university spin-outs into the business community.

He founded and Chaired the Open North Foundation, a social enterprise formed during Covid to help smaller businesses more impacted by Covid with their recovery. Just under £100k of funding was raised from the private sector and university partners.

Richard also led multiple trade missions between the United Kingdom and South Africa until a few years ago.

He was honorary Vice-President of the North East England Chamber of Commerce, Board member, and chaired their International Trade Committee .

He was also International Trade Director for the South African Chamber of Commerce in the United Kingdom.

Richard also serves as one of His Majesty's Deputy Lord Lieutenants for County Durham.

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