As Chief Executive of the North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) Ltd, Paul comes from an accomplished background in finance and auditing with KPMG, having previously studied accountancy and financial analysis at Newcastle University. Since his appointment in 2001 Paul has established the BIC as  a primary regional player in the fields of incubation, innovation and business support.

In addition to his work with the BIC, Paul works with several other organisations, all dedicated to shaping enterprise in the North East. Paul chairs the regional enterprise network group North East Enterprise Agencies Ltd (NEEAL), and was appointed chair of the National Enterprise Network (NEN) in 2012, prior to which he served as deputy chair.

Paul is also a Non-Executive at South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust and Chair of Community Opportunities in the City .

In 2020, Paul was awarded the Outstanding Contribution award by National Enterprise Network in recognition of his exceptional work. The Awards recognised those in the enterprise support sector who have gone the extra mile in the most challenging year for business.

In 2021 Paul was awarded the OBE for his services to local North East Businesses.