Middlesbrough based fabrication firm Jalna take on two more staff

A Middlesbrough based fabrication firm has appointed two new members to its team as it prepares for future growth.

Family-run Jalna Construction, which specialises in fabrication, marine and offshore engineering services, has taken on Gary Lumby MBE and graduate Samantha Wanless, to help secure the company’s long-term growth and success.

With a wealth of experience in consulting, finance, marketing and business strategy, Gary has been hired as Jalna’s first non-executive director.

He said: “I know that if we can implement the correct strategy, backed up with great customer service and the appropriate accreditations, we can grow the business significantly.

“I hope to help make Jalna the leading provider of fabrication and light engineering services in the North.”

Speaking of Gary’s appointment, commercial director Richard Horner said: “Gary’s expertise in larger organisations will help us massively. It’s really exciting watching our vision become a reality and success.”

Having successfully run several businesses, as well as being a non-executive director for ten other companies, the MBE’s knowledge and experience will certainly prove invaluable for the company’s development.

Jalna also believes in the importance of supporting local graduates. Recent business and management graduate, Samantha is relishing the opportunity of working for the local firm as business administrator after studying at Durham University’s Stockton campus.

She said: “It’s a great time to be a part of the company.

“Being given the opportunity to assist in its planned expansion and being a part of Jalna’s success makes me very proud of the team I have joined”.

Commenting on Samantha’s new role, Richard said: “Relatively low numbers of graduates remain in the area after finishing university. It’s important for local companies to encourage graduates to stay and work in the region, not only for the benefit of the business but the local economy too.”

Jalna, which aims to increase its turnover by 20% this year, recently celebrated the sail of The Gracie Ava, the first ship to launch from Teesside in over 20 years.