Meet Our Team

Since joining BEC in 2015, Michael Pemberton BEM has transformed the company into a purpose-driven force for change in West Cumbria. A former Royal Logistic Corps Officer with experience across sectors, he is passionate about unlocking potential in people, places, and communities. Recognised as a Transformational Leader and awarded the British Empire Medal for his services to community and driving forward regeneration, Michael leads BEC with vision and integrity, reinvesting success into projects that strengthen communities, create opportunities, and build a brighter future for the region. In his spare time you'll find Michael enjoying fell walks and weekends away with his wife, Sarah.

Gemma moved to West Cumbria in 2017, bringing over 25 years of experience across public, private, and third sectors. She works with partners and leaders to drive strategic change and support organisational impact. At BEC, Gemma helps secure funding, develop business cases, and build delivery partnerships for redevelopment projects, while supporting local businesses and heritage buildings. Gemma is passionate about opening doors for people, she knows first hand how access to different opportunities can raise aspirations and change your future. Outside work, she likes to curl up on the sofa with a cup of tea and a good book and lose herself in a different world.

Bill joined BEC in 2017, bringing a wealth of expertise to the management of our Let Estate portfolio, including Westlakes Science Park, The Bus Station and Blencathra Business Centre. Over the years, his role has expanded to include our Development Portfolio, where he helps shape the future of our spaces and the communities that use them.Outside of work, Bill’s either perfecting his swing at the golf range, roaring for Greenock Morton FC and the Glasgow Warriors, chasing hills and beaches with his excitable cocker spaniel and golden retriever, or attempting an evening jog around Westlakes Science Park - usually being overtaken by the rest of the team.

Sam joined BEC in 2021, bringing experience in business analysis, project delivery, and management. As Head of Operations, her role encompasses all things BEC, from keeping our spaces running smoothly while driving meaningful change. Passionate about people and places, Sam works closely with partner initiatives that create real opportunities in West Cumbria. A natural collaborator, she connects teams and organisations to deliver lasting social impact, gluing communities together through strong relationships. Outside work, she enjoys scuba diving, paddleboarding, wild swimming, and walking her Labrador, Lola.

Paula joined BEC in 2015 as part of our Facilities Team and quickly transitioned to the role of Executive Assistant to the Chief Executive in 2016. With over 30 years’ experience in HR, she’s a passionate advocate for BEC’s values-led approach to recruitment and team development. Paula works closely with the leadership team to strengthen capability across the organisation and is a proud ambassador of our culture. She also champions youth employability through local school initiatives — and is a very proud nan to Noah!

Rebecca joined BEC in 2015 on a temporary contract and - ten years later - she’s still here, bringing over two decades of accounting and finance expertise since qualifying as a chartered accountant in 2004. Her long tenure reflects a deep commitment to delivering value, building strong relationships, and evolving with the business. Outside of work, Rebecca enjoys quality time with her husband and children, walking her cockerpoo Buddy around Whitehaven Harbour, babysitting her two young nephews, and taking a leisurely scroll through TikTok.

Andrea joined BEC in July 2015 as part of our Facilities team. From there, she has progressed from Customer Services Officer to Facilities Coordinator. Now, she works in our Developments team as Project Manager, working with the BEC team and external partners to ensure our activity is on track!In her spare time, Andrea can be found walking the fells and enjoying adventures with her dog, Pixie.

Shaun is BEC’s new Facilities Manager, bringing a wealth of experience and a proven track record. He oversees the smooth operation and maintenance of all our properties, ensuring safe, efficient, and welcoming spaces for tenants and staff. Shaun combines hands-on expertise with a practical, solutions-focused approach, managing everything from routine maintenance to larger improvement projects.Outside of work, Shaun enjoys gardening, working out in the gym and spending time with family and friends.

Lucy joined BEC in early 2022 to help elevate our customer experience, particularly across meeting & event spaces and hospitality. She's the friendly first face for our tenants and guests. Outside work, Lucy’s either out walking the coastal path - or eagerly planning her next cruise!

Emma, our Community Impact Manager, leads projects that connect BEC with local needs, including our exciting Revive project. With a people-first approach, she brings energy, empathy, and experience to help communities thrive.Outside of work, Emma enjoys staying active in the gym and spending time with family and friends.

Joe started in 2022 as our Digital Marketing apprentice and now works as our Communications Officer. Joe's work involves running our social media, maintaining our website content and supporting large-scale marketing campaigns. Outside of work, you can catch Joe playing the piano and filling his camera roll with pictures of the sunset!

Steven studied horticulture at Newton Rigg College and first spent time at Westlakes when he did his work experience over 25 years ago. Steven ran his own horticulture business before joining us in 2018 when we brought the grounds maintenance service in-house. Grounds maintenance are the custodians of our natural capital here at Westlakes. Steven takes great pride in managing and improving the natural habitat for our customer and communities to enjoy. Steven is committed to protecting the wildlife on the Park and encouraging responsible community use. In his spare time, Steven can be found enjoying his own slice of paradise in his back garden, and is partial to a whiskey by the fire.