FEATURE
Direction – Jason Pritchard , appointed Fitfactory CEO in January 2022 , spearheaded the creation of a commercial team from the ground up .
Amid the increasing stringency of carbon reduction measures , businesses must embrace technology and actively seek support to navigate the emerging challenges ” of attaining net zero emissions and promoting environmental sustainability .
“ This pursuit has culminated in the development of technology which seamlessly integrates into SMEs . Our commitment to affordability ensures that these companies can access cuttingedge solutions , facilitating substantial reductions in their carbon footprint .”
Fitfactory ’ s success story is synonymous with the current vibrant landscape of Teesside , and from the outset , Jason has remained committed to the region .
“ When I was asked to lead on Fitfactory ’ s commercialisation , I was also asked to relocate , but I ’ ve worked on Teesside my whole career and it ’ s a place I want to be ,” he said .
“ We have a thriving tech sector here , some great engineering and manufacturing companies and fantastic support from local councils and government .
“ Fusion Hive is the perfect starting point for us , so I dug my heels in and said , ‘ No , if you want me and you want me to grow the business , it will be here !’”
Despite his belief in the Tees region ’ s potential , Jason also acknowledged that there is stiff competition to employ experienced staff from a relatively small talent pool .
“ One of the things I quickly learned is that it ’ s the company and its culture which attracts talent , potentially more so than salary , so we offer a flexible working model and place emphasis on trust and extreme ownership ,” he added .
“ Was this something I believed in at the very start ? No . I was pretty old school in believing that the team had to be in the office working 9 ‘ til 5 .
“ My perspective shifted when I employed Laura , who encouraged me to recognise the value of achieving a work-life balance , understanding that when employees find this equilibrium , their satisfaction grows , leading to heightened dedication , exceptional performance , and a strong sense of loyalty .”
Fitfactory ’ s presence now extends beyond its Stockton HQ . Jason ’ s role on the advisory board of Make UK underscores the company ’ s dedication to shaping the region ’ s future in digital transformation .
Collaborations with Teesside University and Darlington College reflect a commitment to nurturing young talent and addressing the sector ’ s skill gaps , while a partnership with the Hope Foundation aims to uplift and empower the community .
Looking ahead , Fitfactory ’ s trajectory holds great promise . Recently being acknowledged with a shortlisting in the Innovation category at the Northern Automotive Alliance Awards underscores a commitment to excellence , while a recruitment drive scheduled for early next year means the company is strategically positioned to assist engineering and manufacturing firms in navigating the intricate landscape of digital technology . This guidance will prove crucial as companies strive to achieve their carbon reduction objectives in the face of tightening regulations .
“ Amid the increasing stringency of carbon reduction measures , businesses must embrace technology and actively seek support to navigate the emerging challenges ,” said Jason .
With an ever-watchful eye on the horizon of forthcoming regulatory shifts , Fitfactory serves as a reassuring presence , fortified by its profound expertise and access to a diverse array of funding avenues .
It has even created an SME-focused reward system which entitles a referrer to a complimentary European city break and entry into a draw to win a luxurious Maldives holiday .
“ As SMEs navigate challenging times , this opportunity offers a reprieve – whether they choose to enjoy it personally , share it with their team , or contribute to a charitable cause ,” added Jason .
“ It ’ s a small respite from the prevailing cost-of-living concerns , demonstrating our commitment to both fostering relationships and alleviating the strains of the current climate .”
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The voice of business in the Tees region | 113