National framework specialist Pagabo has appointed Karen Carter as its first regional relationship manager for the north of England.  

Carter joins Pagabo with a remit to support the business’ growth throughout the north of England, while also implementing key regional objectives to current users of Pagabo’s frameworks. 

Having worked within the construction sector for the last ten years, Carter specialises in the development of industry-leading strategies and collaborative working – both of which are designed to provide tangible benefits to clients, local stakeholders and communities.  

Carter said: “In my last two roles, I became increasingly aware of Pagabo’s growing success and when I discovered the team was searching for a new regional relationship manager it caught my attention. After a discussion with Simon Toplass about the role and the company it felt like the right next step for my career and I’m really thrilled to be part of the team.  

“Over the last decade I have developed a real love for the construction industry and all it has to offer. Being part of the first collaborative construction frameworks within the north-east was a great experience and one which has put me in good stead in my career. I’ve worked in public sector procurement for more than ten years before dipping into the contractor side of bidding for the past three years.” 

Chief executive of Hull-based Pagabo, Simon Toplass, said: “When Karen contacted me to discuss the regional relationship manager role, I knew that her expertise in community engagement and helping local projects get off the ground would sit tremendously in line with our emphasis on social value, so think she will be the perfect fit for the role. We are absolutely delighted to welcome her to the team and feel very fortunate that she is joining at such an exciting time for us as a company.”  

Carter’s appointment comes as Pagabo gears up for its £47bn developer-led public sector framework. The framework features three lots: Property Development via Joint Venture (JV) and Special Purpose Vehicles (SPV), Long Income Lease and Lease Back, and Property Development Single Site by Development Agreement. These three lots will cover a huge variety of works including, but not limited to, social housing, commercial buildings, student accommodation, arenas and stadia. 

Carter added: “For me, it’s important to be part of a business that is forward-thinking and is always looking to be innovative within the industry. Pagabo is absolutely doing this through things like launching the new developer-led framework and our partnership with health tech brand Moodbeam to drive positive wellbeing on construction sites. 

“Work around mental health within construction is becoming synonymous with the organisation, so I very much help that I can further this crucial work by supporting the Pagabo Foundation alongside my day-to-day role as well.”