We are delighted to welcome Gill Rice and her company, Collingwood Business Development, to the Do Business Network.
With a rich background in technical leadership, manufacturing, and engineering support across the region, Gill brings a wealth of hands-on experience and strategic insight to our business community.
A Proven Track Record in Technical Leadership
Gill’s expertise in the manufacturing sector runs deep. A Licentiate of the London School of Polymer Technology, she previously served as Managing Director of Tyne Valley Plastics, leading complex manufacturing operations, driving business growth, and achieving high-level ISO quality accreditations.
Her achievements and resilience in industry were formally recognised when she was awarded STEM Businesswoman of the Year at the North East Woman in STEM Awards—a testament to her commitment to operational excellence and technical innovation
Supporting Growth in Manufacturing & Engineering
Through Collingwood Business Development, Gill provides practical, hands-on business development support to engineering, manufacturing and technical SMEs — particularly businesses that need additional commercial resource but may not require a full-time Business Development Manager.
Drawing on almost 40 years of experience within manufacturing, Gill understands both the technical and commercial sides of developing new business. Her approach is collaborative, straightforward and focused on identifying genuine opportunities, building relationships and turning conversations into long-term customers.
Her core areas of focus include:
Business Development: Identifying and approaching potential customers, developing new markets and creating new commercial opportunities.
Relationship Building: Helping businesses build stronger connections with customers, prospects and potential collaborators.
Manufacturing & Engineering Insight: Bringing practical industry knowledge to business development, particularly where understanding the technical requirements is just as important as making the initial introduction.
Flexible Support: Providing experienced business development resource on a flexible basis for SMEs that don't necessarily need — or want — a full-time sales function.
Connecting with DBN
Having seasoned leaders like Gill in the network strengthens the knowledge pool for all our members. Her practical understanding of the region's industrial landscape makes her a fantastic sounding board for anyone looking to grow or collaborate within the engineering and manufacturing sectors.
Please join us in giving Gill a warm welcome to the network. You can connect with her on LinkedIn HERE
