Two New Starters at Gateshead Council

Alex Cook, PROTO: The Emerging Technology Centre 

Alex Cook has been appointed as Digital Innovation Manager at Gateshead Council to drive business innovation and growth through the adoption of emerging digital technologies across all industries. A key part of his role is in relation to PROTO: The Emerging Technology Centre.

PROTO, Europe’s first emerging technology and digital innovation centre is set to open in Gateshead this summer.

The £7.8m complex is being funded by Gateshead Council, the European Regional Development Fund and the North East Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP). It will showcase a number of up-and-coming XR technologies.

Alex said: “Businesses across all sectors, not just the digital industry, are seeking to capitalise on the potential of emerging technologies so it’s vital they have access to the tools in order to do this.

“PROTO will not only offer space for tech companies to grow, but will also provide a unique R&D facility housing specialist and hard to access kit, helping businesses to create new products, services and experiences.”

“Technology continues to change the way we live and work in profound ways, and businesses in this part of the UK are at the bleeding edge of these developments. I’m excited to play my part in the innovation process and help businesses and students across the North East.”

Rachel Peacock, Gateshead Council

Joining Alex in Gateshead is Rachel Peacock appointed as Tech Specialist at Gateshead Council.

As part of her role within the economic development team, Rachel will be working closely with strategic partners to support and promote the tech and digital sector in Gateshead.

Rachel brings with her a strong understanding of the North East creative, digital and tech ecosystem, having previously worked as Head of Digital Union at Generator North East.

Her experience and eagerness to further promote the growth of businesses within Gateshead fits well with the council’s ambition to continue raising the profile of the borough and its strong cluster of tech businesses in Baltic Quarter, as well as wider Gateshead.

Rachel says, “I’ve admired the work Gateshead Council have done to develop the quayside and other parts of the area over the last few years as well as their real commitment to companies based here. With the redevelopment of the Baltic Quarter, and the opening of PROTO this summer, it’s a really exciting time to join the team and I’m keen to capitalise on the spotlight which will be shone on the region with the Great Exhibition of the North.”

“We have an ever-growing number of cutting edge tech companies as well as creative geniuses and digital experts in Gateshead and I’m looking forward to working with them closer over the coming year. There are a number of services the council offer and I’m keen to ensure our businesses know how we can support them.”