Kiran Fothergill
Business Leader | Proud Northerner | National Voice
Welcome to the official website of Kiran Fothergill. A sixth-generation businessman born and raised in Middlesbrough, I lead a group of UK companies that span engineering, cybersecurity, and hospitality. With roots in Teesside and North Yorkshire, and operations nationwide, I’m passionate about building businesses that last, supporting British industry, and contributing to our national conversation on economic growth and regional development
About Kiran Fothergill
I am Kiran Fothergill, a business leader with deep roots in Teesside and North Yorkshire, and a proud advocate for the North East of England.
Business is in my blood. I lead a group of companies that collectively employ over 650 people across the UK. From our headquarters in the North East to operations in London, Glasgow, and beyond, our businesses serve vital sectors in engineering, lift technology, cybersecurity, and hospitality.
I believe in responsible leadership, sustainable growth, and investing in British talent. Whether modernising historic engineering firms or building cutting-edge digital services, I’m focused on long-term value and creating opportunities across our regions.
I’m also a regular media commentator on business, policy, and regional development. My contributions have appeared on national television, radio, and in print. In 2024, I stood as a parliamentary candidate, marking the beginning of a long-term commitment to public service built on the foundation of private sector success.
650+
Employees
1854
Heritage Since
17
Regional Offices
6th
Generation businessman
The Group
Across all our businesses, our mission is clear: deliver high-quality services, invest in our people, and build a legacy of trust and performance.
Pickerings Lifts Limited
Since 1854 • Stockton-on-Tees
Founded in 1854 and headquartered on Norton Road in Stockton-on-Tees since the beginning, Pickerings Lifts is one of the UK’s oldest and most respected engineering companies. In my family since 1891, Pickerings has grown into a national lift services provider with 17 regional offices.
We specialise in lift servicing, repairs, maintenance, installations, and modernisations. Our teams also manage escalator systems and loading solutions, working with commercial clients, local authorities, and housing associations. Our longevity reflects our commitment to service, safety, and excellence.
Shorts Industries Limited
Bradford • London
Based in Bradford, with a London office, Shorts Industries supports the lift industry by providing component parts, packaged lifts, spare parts for all major brands, and custom solutions for specialist projects. Our clients trust us to deliver reliable supply chains and expert support.
Sapphire Technologies
Glasgow SOC • Cybersecurity
Sapphire Technologies is a leading UK cybersecurity consultancy. With a Security Operations Centre in Glasgow, we deliver Managed Security Services, compliance support, and strategic cyber consulting to businesses across sectors. As digital threats evolve, Sapphire provides the protection and peace of mind modern businesses need.
Shorts Industries Limited
Bradford • London
We also operate a hospitality business managing a premier venue in Scotland, contributing to local employment and tourism.
Media
Kiran Fothergill is a frequent media contributor, offering commentary on business leadership, regional economics, industrial policy, and national challenges.
Television & Radio
BBC Radio Tees
Regional business commentary
Sky News
National economic analysis
Times Radio
Business leadership insights
GB News
Political & business commentary
Print & Digital
The Times
National business commentary
The Northern Echo
Regional development insights
Business Insider
Industry analysis
Trade Publications
Sector-specific commentary
Whether discussing the future of British engineering, the challenges facing regional businesses, or the intersection of business and politics, Kiran brings a grounded, practical voice shaped by real-world experience.
Business Insights
A space for opinion pieces and commentary reflecting Kiran’s thought leadership and experience navigating multiple sectors in a fast-changing business landscape.
Why Engineering Still Matters in Modern Britain
Exploring the vital role of engineering in Britain’s economic future and industrial strategy.
Cybersecurity for SMEs: It’s Not Optional
Why small and medium enterprises can no longer afford to neglect cybersecurity.
Teesside’s Industrial Future: Beyond the Headlines
A regional perspective on economic development and industrial transformation.
Family Business, National Impact
How generational businesses contribute to economic stability and growth.
Political Engagement
Public Service & Political Campaigning
2024 General Election
In 2024, I stood as the Conservative Party candidate for Middlesbrough & Thornaby East in the UK General Election. In a year that saw a national landslide for Labour and a 19.9% average swing against the Conservatives, our result in Middlesbrough stood out.
Despite the national trend, my vote share fell by only 6.4%. By contrast, the incumbent Labour MP, Andy McDonald, saw his own vote share fall by 6.8% — a telling result in what has long been seen as a Labour stronghold.
This campaign was about more than party politics. It was about showing that a business-minded, regionally rooted candidate could offer something different: practical leadership, real-world experience, and a commitment to our local economy.
My long-term goal is to bring that same business-led, pragmatic approach to politics. I believe our political system needs people who have created jobs, managed companies, and delivered results.
I remain committed to public service and will continue contributing to the national conversation while preparing for future opportunities to represent and serve.
Charitable Pursuits
I strongly believe that business success comes with a responsibility to give back. I’m proud to support and be involved with several charitable and social good organisations making a real impact locally and globally.
The Jobs Foundation
As a founding supporter of The Jobs Foundation, I’m committed to the principle that employment transforms lives. The Foundation works with business leaders across the country to promote the role of enterprise in building opportunity, social mobility, and community cohesion. It’s about championing job creation as the most sustainable form of social impact.
Alsama Project
I am proud to support the Alsama Project, which delivers education and empowerment for refugee youth in Lebanon. Through schooling, sports, and community programs, Alsama gives young people the tools and confidence to build a better future for themselves and their communities — often in the most challenging of circumstances.
Middlesbrough Sea Cadets
Closer to home, I support the Middlesbrough Sea Cadets, a fantastic youth organisation that provides maritime training, leadership development, and life skills for young people in our area. As someone born and raised in Middlesbrough, it means a great deal to help local young people discover their potential through service, teamwork, and discipline.
Supporting these causes reflects my belief in practical action and long-term impact — values that guide everything I do in business and beyond.