JDR Cable Systems has appointed former UK Trade Commissioner Jonathan Knott as deputy chief executive officer, creating a new leadership role to support international growth and operational scaling.
The company said the move reflects rising global demand for subsea cable and offshore energy infrastructure solutions. Knott brings senior experience in international trade and diplomacy, including roles as HM trade commissioner for Latin America and the Caribbean and as British ambassador to Poland and Hungary.
Knott said: “JDR is a company with deep industrial roots and a strong record of delivery, with exceptional prospects for the future.
“I was particularly drawn to its world-leading products and commitment to safety and quality, as well as the way it invests in its people and local communities,” he added.
He noted that JDR’s position within TFKable Group since 2017 has strengthened its technical capabilities and global reach, combining subsea and land cable expertise.
“My focus is on building on what is already strong, ensuring we have the capabilities in place to meet growing global energy demand, while continually improving efficiency and sustainability,” Knott said.
He added that bringing the Blyth facility into live operations marks “a major milestone for JDR and the start of a transformational period”.
JDR is advancing its £130 million high-voltage subsea cable manufacturing facility in Cambois near Blyth to expand high-voltage capability and reinforce the offshore energy supply chain. The investment is backed by the UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s Offshore Wind Manufacturing Investment Support Scheme and is being developed on the site of a former coal-fired power station.
Chief executive Monika Cupiał-Zgryzek said: “Jonathan joins us at an exciting and important moment for JDR.
“We are expanding our high-voltage portfolio, investing in UK manufacturing and strengthening our global presence,” she added, noting his international experience will help the company continue to scale.
