Sellafield skills helps next generation

Transferring years of supply chain management experience in the nuclear industry to the classroom is Dr John Sidney, who has been appointed as a Professor of Practice at the University of Cumbria.

John is currently head of supply chain solutions at Sellafield Ltd and takes up his new position full time this month at the University’s Institute of Business, Industry and Leadership.

The role covers the field of supply chain and logistics and John will work to enhance the curriculum, experience and environment at the university.

Professor Julie Mennell, vice chancellor of the University of Cumbria said:

We are delighted to appoint Dr Sidney as a Professor of Practice. He brings a wealth of highly relevant experience and skills to our University which will help to strengthen further our ability to address industry and employers’ needs, both across Cumbria and beyond.

John, who has held a range of commercial roles within the company, has also contributed to the social and economic development of the community, including in education as a champion of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, a governor of Furness College, a Cumbrian chair of Young Enterprise and the leadership development charity Common Purpose.

He said:

This appointment is testament to the diversity of opportunities for development at Sellafield Ltd. I can’t think of a better environment for a curious mind to thrive. I’d like to thank all those people who have helped me understand the complexity of the nuclear industry and our unique place in it.

This new challenge, based in West Cumbria, is a great opportunity to help build capacity and capability in supply chain management to support economic growth and high-quality employment.