Christine Hodgson to become Chair of Newton

Oxford based operational consultancy Newton has named Christine Hodgson as its new Chair. She takes up the role at the turn of the year, succeeding Andy Clarke.

Newton was founded in 2001, and is a UK origin specialist in operational improvement. The company looks to help clients solve some of the most complex challenges in the public and private sector across sectors including infrastructure, defence, retail, food and drink manufacturing, healthcare, and social care.

Under Andy Clarke’s leadership as Chair, the firm’s work with household names has increased, as has the firm’s presence in the retail and food sectors. He took on the role four years ago, and will continue his involvement at Newton in an advisory capacity after the end of December 2022.

Stepping into his shoes from the New Year is Christine Hodgson, who joins Newton with a wealth of senior leadership and board experience to draw upon. A former Capgemini UK CFO, she also spent time as CEO of Technology Services Northwest Europe and the Global Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at the consultancy. She was more recently Senior Independent Director at Standard Chartered until September 2022.

Commenting on her appointment, Hodgson noted, “It’s such an exciting time to join Newton. The company is committed to delivering significant tangible benefits for every client and has strong ambitions to continue its exceptional growth trajectory. Building on its strong client base, it is focused on a series of strategic initiatives around new markets, digital innovation and acquisitions to achieve this growth. I look forward to working with the talented team at Newton to deliver this potential.”

Newton has doubled in size and has moved into new markets, including infrastructure and central government, in the last five years. Looking ahead, Hodgson hopes to help it realise ambitions of driving innovation, entering further new markets and continuing to deliver over 20% growth annually. 

Andy Hawes, one of Newton’s Founders said of the news, “We’re incredibly excited to welcome Christine on board as Chair at a time of such phenomenal and ambitious growth for the company. Her experience leading organisations through periods of growth, whilst maintaining a commitment to considering the needs of all stakeholders is a perfect fit for Newton. I look forward to working with Christine in this next exciting phase for Newton.”