A familiar face will be taking on a new challenge when she steps up to become the Hinkley Point Project Lead on behalf of Somerset Chamber of Commerce.
Sam Evans, who is currently the Head of Hinkley Supply Chain Engagement for the Chamber, will become the Hinkley Project Lead in June, when Chris Langdon steps away from the role.
Chris has been the Project Lead for the Hinkley Supply Chain team since its inception in 2010 and has decided to step away from his role in order to grow his own business.
Working closely with EDF Energy and key stakeholders over more than eight years, Chris has led the development of the local supply chain and helped to maximise the benefits to businesses in Somerset and the wider South West.
Stephen Henagulph, Chief Executive of Somerset Chamber of Commerce, said Chris had helped to ensure local businesses were at the forefront of the project to build a new nuclear power station at Hinkley Point and thanked him for his commitment and enthusiasm.
“Chris has made sure Somerset businesses have been at the centre of the Hinkley Point C supply chain and has helped to forge strong, productive relationships between local companies and those across the UK and further afield.
“Sam will be able to continue Chris’ hard work, ensuring local firms benefit from the huge investment Hinkley Point C is bringing to Somerset, the South West and South Wales.”
Chris said it had been a privilege to work on the Hinkley Supply Chain project: “This has been a fascinating and challenging project and I have been delighted to be involved right from the start.
“Working with a strong EDF Energy supply chain engagement team, who have demonstrated commitment to finding innovative ways for this very complex infrastructure project to engage with a local supply chain, has been a privilege.
“There is always more we can do and I am sure the skilled chamber team in place will rise to the continuing challenge.”
Sam joined the chamber as a Data Co-ordinator for the Hinkley Supply Chain in 2014 and has been the Head of Hinkley Supply Chain Engagement since 2017.
Sam said: “I am looking forward to further developing the existing Hinkley Point C Supply Chain team and strengthening relationships with external stakeholders and partners.
“Hinkley Point C is a huge project, not just for Somerset and the South West, but for the whole of the UK and it’s vital local businesses have a strong voice to represent them.”