Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster celebrates the retirement of Executive Director John Grainger

Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster celebrates the retirement of Executive Director John Grainger

Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster (BECBC) is today celebrating the retirement of its long-serving Executive Director, John Grainger, who will step down this month after nine years guiding the organisation.

John formally joined BECBC in April 2015, bringing with him a wealth of experience from roles across regional development and economic investment. His vision, calm leadership and commitment to the Cumbrian business community have helped shape the cluster into the dynamic, values-driven organisation it is today.

“Retirement wasn’t originally the plan,” John says, “but I wanted to give something back to my local community, and BECBC gave me the chance to do that in spades. It’s been one of the most rewarding chapters of my working life.”

Under John’s stewardship, BECBC has grown from a primarily nuclear-focused supply chain group into a cross-sector membership organisation that champions collaboration, innovation, and social value. His belief in the cluster’s independence, operating without undue influence from public or private sector bodies, has remained a guiding principle throughout his tenure.

John Clarke, Patron of BECBC, said: “John Grainger’s impact on BECBC and the wider region cannot be overstated. His inclusive leadership style, his genuine passion for supporting local businesses, and his ability to bring people together from across sectors has made the cluster stronger, more resilient, and more relevant than ever. As someone who has spent decades in industry, I admire the way John has championed not just business success, but social responsibility and community value. It’s been a privilege to work alongside him.”

One of the most visible legacies of John’s time with the cluster is his stewardship of the BECBC Business Awards. These awards have become an annual flagship event, celebrating the talent, resilience and impact of businesses and individuals across the region.

“The awards have always been about more than trophies,” said John. “They’re a celebration of what makes this business community so special - the innovation, the integrity, and the passion that drives real impact in Cumbria. I’m especially proud of how fair and inclusive we’ve made the process. Every shortlisted business is visited and assessed in depth, not just judged on what’s written in an entry form. That rigour makes a huge difference - it levels the playing field and means the best stories shine through, regardless of who’s telling them.”

In recognition of his outstanding contribution, BECBC is proud to announce the launch of The John Grainger Award, a new honour that will be presented annually to an individual who has made an exceptional impact on the cluster’s life and values. Sponsored by Inspira, the award will be formally launched with the others in May, where John will be honoured and celebrated by members and peers.

Dianne Richardson, CEO of BECBC, said: “John has made an incredible contribution to BECBC and to the wider Cumbrian business landscape. His vast industry knowledge, deep care for people and place, and unwavering belief in the value of collaboration have inspired me personally since the day I joined. His support has been invaluable as I’ve stepped into the role of CEO, and I know I speak for so many when I say he will be greatly missed - but his legacy will continue to guide the cluster for years to come.”

Paul Pointon, Chair of BECBC, said: “John’s contribution to BECBC has been truly transformative. He’s steered the cluster through challenging times - from political and funding changes to a global pandemic - and always with calm leadership and a clear focus on values. We’re incredibly grateful for his commitment and for laying foundations that will benefit members long into the future.”

John may be stepping back from the day-to-day running of the cluster at the end of April, but he won’t be disappearing entirely. He will continue to contribute to regional conversations and strategic forums as part of his ongoing commitment to Cumbria. He will also continue to attend BECBC meetings representing his consultancy firm, Wilde Grainger.

“BECBC works because it’s values-led, member-driven and genuinely self-determining,” John adds. “That’s rare — and precious. I’m incredibly proud to have been part of it.”