JDR appoints deputy chief executive

Subsea cable supplier JDR Cable Systems has appointed former UK trade commissioner Jonathan Knott CMG as deputy chief executive.

The newly created role supports the Hartlepool-headquartered company’s international expansion and operational growth as demand increases for subsea cable and offshore energy infrastructure.

Jonathan brings senior leadership experience from government and diplomacy, having served as HM trade commissioner for Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as British ambassador to Poland and Hungary. 

He was also deputy head of mission at the British embassy in South Korea.

Jonathan said: “JDR is a company with deep industrial roots and a strong record of delivery, with exceptional prospects for the future. 

“I was particularly drawn to its world-leading products and commitment to safety and quality, as well as the way it invests in its people and local communities. 

“Being part of the TFKable Group since 2017 has further strengthened JDR’s technical capability and global reach, combining subsea and land cable expertise to support complex offshore energy projects worldwide. 

“My focus is on building on what is already strong, ensuring we have the capabilities in place to meet growing global energy demand, while continually improving efficiency and sustainability. 

“Bringing the Blyth facility into live operations marks a major milestone for JDR and the start of a transformational period. 

“Alongside strengthening our international delivery capability, I look forward to seeing the facility flourish as a cornerstone of our future growth and UK manufacturing capability.” 

Jonathan’s appointment comes as JDR progresses its £130 million high-voltage subsea cable manufacturing facility in Cambois, near Blyth, a project backed by the UK Government’s Offshore Wind Manufacturing Investment Support Scheme.

The development forms part of JDR’s strategy to expand high-voltage capabilities and strengthen the offshore energy supply chain in the UK and internationally.

Monika Cupiał-Zgryzek, chief executive of JDR, added: “Jonathan joins us at an exciting and important moment for JDR. 

“We are expanding our high-voltage portfolio, investing in UK manufacturing and strengthening our global presence. 

“His international experience and strategic insight will be invaluable as we continue to evolve and scale. 

“We’re focused on delivering reliable, high-quality solutions while continually striving to optimise how we operate and support our customers. 

“As part of the TFKable Group, we are uniquely positioned to combine global manufacturing expertise with strong local delivery capability across key offshore markets.”

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