Celtic Renewables appoints two new board members as production facility completed

Cleantech innovator Celtic Renewables has announced the appointment of two new board members.
The news coincides with the completion of the company’s first production facility in Grangemouth and the unveiling of outline plans for a second biorefinery in the north of Scotland.
Brett Simpson has been appointed as executive chairman with Eleanor Bentley taking up the role of Non-Executive Director.
Both Brett and Eleanor bring with them extensive expertise in the cleantech, energy and chemicals sectors.
Brett holds a number of additional board positions at organisations including the University of St Andrews, Bladon Micro Turbines and The Wave Project. While leading specialist global technology and manufacturing businesses, he has successfully driven performance in challenging market conditions by defining and implementing strategic goals, engaging and empowering teams, and developing investor trust.
Meanwhile, Eleanor’s expertise brings extensive skill in risk and financial management. She holds numerous non-executive positions at the University of Aberdeen, ICAS and Scottish Ballet.
Celtic Renewables’ flagship facility, and Scotland’s first biorefinery, is on track for entering full-scale production in autumn 2022. In addition, Celtic Renewables has entered into an agreement to build a second plant – this time in the Speyside region, the heart of whisky-making in Scotland.
Mark Simmers, Chief Executive Officer of Celtic Renewables, said: “As we enter an exciting growth phase for the company, it is important that we have the guidance of an experienced board that can support us on our ambitious journey. Both Brett and Eleanor have a proven track record of driving successful, high growth businesses and I look forward to working with them alongside Celtic Renewables’ experienced management team.”
Brett Simpson, Chair of Celtic Renewables, said: “Never before has the need for sustainable sources of energy and low-carbon products been greater, and I am proud to be joining Celtic Renewables at this exciting growth stage, when the company will be playing its part in helping UK and Scottish Governments meet their environmental goals.”
Celtic Renewables’ patented low-carbon technology converts unwanted and low-value biological material into high-value renewable chemicals, sustainable biofuel, and other commercially and environmentally valuable products.