Tees Business Tees Business Issue 20 | Page 47

The voice of business in the Tees region | 47 HIGH FLIERS! Deal - Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen (centre) with Cornerstone directors Chris Petty (left) and Chris Bibby. T Cornerstone lands airport in major IT coup eesside International has appointed Stockton-based Cornerstone Business Solutions to provide IT support to the airport. The three-year agreement with Cornerstone will include an overhaul of the IT network infrastructure, including the wi-fi throughout the terminal, to ensure that passengers can enjoy a fast and free connection. Cornerstone will also support the airport’s network, mobile communications and CCTV, while also providing an IT helpdesk for staff. A multi-award-winning IT services business founded 11 years ago, Cornerstone was recently named Best IT Service Business in the North-East at the Corporate Excellence Awards. The firm boasts a client list that includes Middlesbrough Football Club, Camerons Brewery, Heck Foods and many more across the region. Cornerstone is the latest local firm to join the airport team, following the appointments of ROVIN Environmental, Tindle’s Chartered Accountants and MHA Tait Walker. Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “We are delighted to appoint another fantastic local company to work with Teesside International Airport. Cornerstone will play a vital role in servicing the IT network needed to support the airport’s growth. “Not only that, it will help make our airport one of the most passenger-friendly. Whether flying for leisure or business, travellers can be assured of a top-quality internet connection. “As well as providing a great service to passengers, we have always been clear that the airport has a vital role to play in the economic growth of the region. “The plans for the airport are really exciting and it’s a privilege to be chosen to help support them.” “When I brought our airport back into public ownership, I said it must support the local economy by working with our businesses. By working with the best local firms we’re keeping our money in our area, supporting local jobs and saving the airport cash in the process.” Chris Petty, managing director of Cornerstone, said: “It’s great to continue working with the airport. We supported it in a more ad-hoc role previously but are looking forward to working together on a much closer basis. “The plans for the airport are really exciting and it’s a privilege to be chosen to help support them.” Cornerstone has partnerships with such leading brands as Microsoft, Apple, IBM, HP, Dell, Lenovo, Vmware, ESET and Cisco. “We have simple strategies that have underpinned Cornerstone’s success and ongoing growth,” added Chris, who runs the firm with fellow directors Chris Clark, John Storey and Chris Bibby. “It’s about providing a first-class service, real expertise, a professional call management system, looking after our customers and all supported by partnering global brands. “Ultimately, our core values are customer service and making sure our customers are happy. “It’s no coincidence that over the years we’ve won multiple awards for our customer service and IT offerings. Each day we’re always looking at ways to further improve our customer experience and make sure we never rest on our laurels.”