Banker changes direction

Sep 21 2007 by Iain Laing, The Journal

HIGH profile North-East banker Rory Gibson is to become finance director of Newcastle builder Surgo.

Mr Gibson’s move ends a 30-year career at Barclays, most recently as larger business relationship director in Newcastle.

He joins Surgo as a director and company secretary in preparation for finance director Bill Blyth’s retirement in six months time.

Surgo managing director Ian Walker said: “As a company we continually strive to improve our product, the way we do business and, importantly, recruit and retain high calibre staff – all of which will ensure that Surgo Construction continues to lead the way on major projects in the region’s education sector while developing a strong client base in other sectors.

“To do this we sometimes look outside of the construction sector when making appointments – I believe this sets us apart from our competitors. Rory Gibson’s appointment is a good example of this.”

Mr Gibson said: “I have spent the last eight years in the North-East and the past three of those working closely with construction and property based companies.

“Surgo Construction is an outstanding company with great people, providing a high quality product.

“Since the MBO in 2002, Surgo has grown significantly, increasing turnover and profits year on year.

“The organisation is well respected by its contemporaries, clients and the many project partners it works with on a number of prestigious schemes throughout the region.”

Surgo’s turnover for the current year is anticipated to be in the region of £60m, increasing to £67m for the 2007/08 accounting period.