Harrison Bridge moves to Blythe Valley Innovation Centre as demand grows for top talent in the energy sector
Published on Wednesday, 26 February 2025
The Innovation Centre’s flexible approach to company growth is set to benefit Harrison Bridge as demand for senior talent in the energy sector continues to rise.
With the UK pushing forward on its net-zero commitments, businesses across the energy landscape are expanding to meet the demands of the energy transition.
Founder and managing director of Harrison Bridge, Lee De Souza, has seen demand for his company’s services rise significantly as a result.
He said: “While uncertainty remains due to shifting policies, geopolitical challenges, and economic instability, there are also major opportunities. Businesses are eager to secure top executive talent, leaders with strong general management skills, as well as the technical and commercial expertise to navigate this evolving sector.
“These factors have kept us extremely busy, and we’re looking to grow our own team as well. To do that effectively, we need to ensure we’re offering our staff not just a great package, but an environment that they can thrive in.”
Lee had wanted to move out of Harrison Bridge’s previous premises to a more inviting workspace, and felt that Blythe Valley Innovation Centre ticked all the boxes.
The centre’s flexible leasing structure, which allows tenants to quickly agree a new lease when they want to expand into further space, was also an attractive factor.
He said: “It’s well connected, surrounded by green space, and the inviting entrance creates an excellent first impression.
“We thought it was not only a great place to bring candidates and clients, but would be a much better environment for our staff too.
“It wasn’t long into the move before I felt we had made the right decision. The team loves it here, and the centre’s support team cannot do enough for us.
“With the demand we are experiencing and the potential for seamless expansion within the centre, I believe we can grow to having 30 members of staff within the next five to 10 years.”
Andy Stewart, Centre Manager at Blythe Valley Innovation Centre, said: “Lee and the team have really settled in well since their move, and it is great to hear how they are enabling their clients to attract the best talent to help achieve the government’s energy ambitions.
“We have helped many of our tenants expand within the centre, and we are hopeful that it won’t be long before we do the same with Harrison Bridge.”
Cllr Ian Courts, Leader of Solihull Council and Cabinet Member for the Economy, said: “The emerging low carbon energy sector is thriving here in Solihull. As demand grows, it’s important we leverage access to our highly skilled workforce, business-friendly infrastructure and the obvious locational and lifestyle advantages we can offer to continue attracting top talent.
“We are delighted that Harrison Bridge have decided to join us at Blythe Valley Innovation Centre as they look to take the next step in growing the business. Their move underscores the Centre’s crucial role as a hub for innovation and growth in the region.
“I have no doubt that the flexible and supportive environment at Blythe Valley will assist in their continued success, while contributing significantly to our local economy and the broader energy landscape.”