Leading industrial boiler specialist, Cochran, has appointed Leigh Freeman as Head of People and Culture. Based at its headquarters in Newbie in South-West Scotland, Leigh will lead on the company’s recruitment, people strategy, talent development and culture.
She brings more than 30 years’ experience in HR and recruitment to this newly created role and holds an MA in Human Resource Management, a NEBOSH general certificate, and is a qualified workplace mediator and Fellow of the CIPD (FCIPD).
Most recently Leigh worked at Make UK, a membership organisation for the manufacturing industry where she provided HR consultancy to members. She oversaw the full HR function – from delivering targeted leadership training to guiding businesses through complex organisational change and site closures – and worked with owner-led companies, SMEs and global organisations. Leigh has also held senior in-house roles including Head of People and HR Manager positions in manufacturing and construction organisations.
Leigh’s expertise and strategic outlook will benefit Cochran as she spearheads aligning the company’s talent strategy with business growth. She will lead the company’s people and culture strategy and help to enhance employee engagement and attract future talent.
Leigh said: “I’m excited to be joining as Head of People and Culture in a new role that underlines Cochran’s commitment to putting its people first.
“I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know and supporting the senior team over the last few years in a consultancy role and this has given me a clear insight into the company’s culture and ambitions. I’m really looking forward to building on the strong foundations already in place and helping to shape the next phase of growth.
Tom Ritchie, Managing Director of Cochran commented “We are delighted to welcome Leigh to the team. From the work she has done with us to date it’s clear to see Leigh is highly motivated, with great integrity and a passion for people.
“We are proud of our heritage and track record as a key employer in our region and are dedicated to providing opportunities and training to the next generation. Leigh’s appointment will help us to continue to attract and develop best in class talent.”
Founded in 1878, Cochran is a global specialist in industrial boiler manufacturing and through-life support services. It acts as acts as a full partner, offering design, manufacturing, support, servicing, upgrades, spares, hire and training from one source to a breadth of industries including oil and gas, food processing, brewing, marine, pharma and chemical processing.
