Meet the team
The Business Growth Team is dedicated to helping businesses thrive.
Whether you need guidance on expansion, employee development, or networking opportunities, we're here to help you succeed in Stockton-on-Tees.
To get in touch with any of our experienced members of the team, email invest@stockton.gov.uk.
Julie Marsden, Economic Development Manager
I have worked in local government for 26 years, 23 of which have been in Economic Development and working directly to support businesses.
I am experienced across a range of key sectors including, leisure and hospitality, retail and digital and creative.
My current role is to head up a team of people that put inclusive growth at the heart of everything we do, working with businesses to support all aspects of growth, attracting inward investment, and pursuing long term solutions to employability.
I love the diverse landscape of Stockton-on-Tees, its excellent location and infrastructure, and of course its people - they make it the perfect place to live, work and play.
Louise Dykes, Strategic Funding Manager
I have over 20 years of project and programme management experience both within regeneration and public health. My roles have involved delivery, financial management and evaluation of large-scale funding programmes aimed at improving the lives of local people.
I can therefore provide advice and guidance on identifying and applying for funding from a variety of sources, such as government grants or grant giving foundations. I can also give hints and tips on bid writing, the principles of which can also apply to the writing of tender documents.
I enjoy walking along the riverside at Stockton and watching the waterfront development unfold, as I think it will create a great place to live and work.
Alison Kelly, Business Growth and Investment Manager
With over 20 years' business growth experience derived from private and public sector, I joined the Council's Economic Development team in March 2024 after running my own consultancy company for several years.
I have expertise in innovation management, entrepreneurship and change management, and I wanted to put my experience into practice to help local businesses to sustain and flourish.
I work with a fantastic team of business advisors to plan and implement campaigns that ensure organisations can access up to date and relevant support to help with business growth and inward investment.
I live in Sunderland but I love the friendly welcome everyone receives from the locals here in Stockton-on-Tees who are clearly passionate about their home.
Kevin Sedgwick, Business Growth Advisor
I have 40 years' experience in multiple business sectors, including chemical process and engineering, transport, warehousing and logistics, motor vehicles and media advertising. For the last 10 years I have worked supporting local business growth within local government at Gateshead, Middlesbrough and now Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council.
I support and promote inclusive growth opportunities for businesses within the Borough through the provision of information and advice. I work with all sectors focusing on opportunities for business growth to benefit local businesses, communities and residents.
I am a Stockon-on-Tees resident and it's important for me to be able to influence and effect how the area develops and prospers. I like to give an honest, positive approach to business support, reflecting and highlighting the great businesses and people within the Borough.
Stockton-on-Tees is a great place to live and work with fantastic opportunities for local businesses to grow, collaborate and benefit from the larger projects within the area. It's my privilege to work with all businesses to help them access these opportunities and support their growth and success.
Robyn Robson, Business Growth Advisor
I have been working for Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council for nearly 2 years, first as a support officer and then as a Business Growth Adviser.
I have worked in business support for several years and I have experience of providing support to businesses at any stage which has helped me shape my knowledge of the local area and the support on offer within the region. I have specialist knowledge in supporting business start-ups and I enjoy the variety of individuals and companies that I engage with.
I love Stockton-on-Tees because of the vibrant events that unite the community, such as SIRF and the Festival of Thrift.
Shauna Noteyoung, Business Growth Advisor
I have worked for Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council for over 4 years within the Economic Development team. I have a background in marketing in the engineering sector which comes in handy when I support businesses locally.
I am keen to see businesses develop and grow. My role enables me to support people to navigate Council services and I also signpost them to other business support, such as accessing funding and searching for premises.
I began my career as a Business Administration Apprentice, completing both Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications and subsequently achieving a degree in Business Management. Currently, I am taking a key interest in business sustainability and undertaking a Level 7 Sustainability Business Specialist Apprenticeship. This will equip me to support businesses in developing long-term sustainability strategies, ensuring they meet the evolving environmental and regulatory standards.
What I love about Stockton-on-Tees is how it's evolving with its exciting regeneration projects and creative plans. I'm a huge fan of the annual events that bring everyone together and showcase the area's talent. I can't wait to see how it all develops!
Lisa Hodgson, Business Growth Advisor
After 23 years working for the Department for Work and Pensions as a work coach and recruitment advisor, I decided it was time to transfer my skills and experience to support businesses within Stockton-on-Tees as part of the Economic Development Team.
As a Business Growth Advisor with Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, I work with a variety of companies and organisations to signpost to services and advise on business growth.
I have always lived and worked in Stockton-on-Tees, therefore I have a genuine interest in seeing the area thrive and develop. I also enjoy eating in Stockton and have sampled many of the restaurants, pub grub and take aways - Chinese and Shawarma being my favourite!
