Steve Hunt is founder of Liverpool mechanical and electrical engineering specialist, Steven Hunt Associates, and now he is overseeing a major change at the top of the business. Tony McDonough reports

Steven Hunt Associates founder Steve Hunt is to move from managing director to chief executive of the Liverpool firm with a new MD being appointed.

Neil Baines, who has been with mechanical and electrical engineering consultancy for almost 25 years, is taking over the reins of the business. It was started by Steve Hunt in 1989 when he was aged just 24.

Since then it has established a UK-wide reputation in the building sector. It works on everything from small-scale projects to large multi-million pound developments. The firm has multiple clients across the private and public sectors.

Supported by the board of directors Dave Kelly, Anne King and Dominic Sibbring, this change comes as part of a strategic succession process.

Among his priorities, Neil will put extra emphasis on broadening Steven Hunt’s growing client portfolio and attracting new people to the business.

He said: “As we approach our 35th anniversary, Steven Hunt Associates has an incredible legacy in the mechanical and electrical engineering sector that I intend to build upon.

“Having been at the company since 1999, I am looking forward to leading the business with my fellow directors into an exciting new era while ensuring standards remain high as our clients have come to expect over the years.

“As a team, we pledge to take the business to the next level and I am proud to drive this future growth.

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Steve Hunt added: “The company is in very good hands. Neil is a strong leader with real strategic vision.

“Alongside the board of directors, I am excited to see where they take the company next. Of course, I will be on hand in my new role as CEO to offer support and guidance where needed.”