Europa Worldwide Group has strengthened its board with two senior technology appointments in a move it said advanced its plans to operate as a tech-led business.
Paul Hinchley has been promoted from head of software development to software development director and Chris Mitchell has been promoted from group head of IT to IT director.
The board appointments came as Europa increases its investment in proprietary software, cybersecurity and digital infrastructure to support its continued international growth.
Andrew Baxter, Europa CEO, said: “Paul and Chris bring different but complementary strengths to the board.
“Their appointments recognise the contribution they have already made to Europa and ensure that software development, cybersecurity and digital infrastructure are represented at the highest level of the business.”
Europa said Hinchley had led the company’s development teams for more than a decade and had overseen the advancement of software innovations across the business.
This included Europa Flow, developed to simplify post-Brexit customs processes and reduce delays for British exporters.
Hinchley said: “Europa Flow is a perfect example of how we use technology to solve real logistics challenges for our customers.
“Our eight software development teams work closely with senior stakeholders and operations specialists across the business. As customs and regulatory requirements grow, customers expect real-time shipment visibility and greater control through self-service platforms whilst operations and finance teams need smarter, faster and more reliable systems.”
Since joining six years ago, Europa said Mitchell had transformed the group’s IT function, expanding it from five people to a team of more than 30 specialists.
He strengthened cybersecurity and operational resilience, created secure and scalable platforms, and embedded greater security awareness throughout the organisation.
“Technology is no longer simply a support function,” Mitchell said.
“It plays a critical role across every part of Europa. Joining the board will strengthen the connection between our business and technology strategies, allowing my team to engage earlier, anticipate future requirements and ensure our investment continues to deliver value.”
