THE SPACE PROGRAM TEAM.

Dave Newport

Mission Controller, Avonmouth Space Program

Dave is our new Mission Controller at Avonmouth Space Program.  Dave has previously worked in sales and training for 30 years in the computer and motor industries.  He’s also successfully ran his own business for 8 years based around motorcycles.  In his spare time, Dave enjoys building and tinkering with anything mechanical especially motorcycle (spending far too much money and time on them!), and spending time with his family and friends.

What’s the best bit?  ‘I aim to provide a professional, friendly service offering honest straight forward advice, to make the selection of storage as painless as possible.’

Unexpected fact:  ‘I stood on the Grid before the start of British Superbike meetings, with riders whose bikes I have helped to prepare.  I’ve also flown over Bristol in a Michelin Balloon at the International Balloon Fiesta.’

And if you had a magic wand?:  ‘I’d wish for health and happiness for all my family and friends, and more time to eat cake!!’

Rhys Jackson

CARDIFF-BAY MISSION CONTROLLER

Rhys plays a pivotal role as our Cardiff-Bay Mission Controller, ensuring every aspect of the Space Program in the region is executed with precision and efficiency. His background of playing college basketball in Barbados has equipped him with unparalleled teamwork skills and the ability to manage fast-paced situations with ease. Off the clock, Rhys immerses himself in the joys of fatherhood, often accompanying his 6-year-old daughter to her swimming lessons and basking in her enthusiasm for the sport.

What’s the best bit? ‘Being a part of an incredible team where everyone is driven to succeed, and witnessing the fruits of our collective labor.’

Unexpected fact: ‘Rhys played basketball for his college in Barbados.’

And if you had a magic wand? ‘To ensure every day is filled with moments of joy and triumph, both on the mission ground and while watching my daughter grow and excel.’

Stuart Allen

Mission Controller, Bridgwater Space Program

Stuart is the Mission Controller for our Bridgwater Space Program. He’s recently moved to the Bridgwater area and now has a grown up family. He has an extensive background in the UK and abroad in many different business roles, providing customer service and solutions.  His main interests include a lifetime passion for all things motorcycling, boating and water sports and cycling. Stuart is the owner of two very lively dogs, Bob and Olive.

What’s the best bit? “Being here to look after a variety of interesting customers”

Unexpected fact: “I used to manage a number of professional bands and singers and travelled the world on tour.”

And if you had a magic wand? “I’d make the sun shine!“

Ian Bird

Mission Controller, Bristol South Space Program

Ian is our Mission Controller at the Bristol South Space Program. He’s hard to miss at 6 foot 7, described more than once as the BFG.  Ian had a very varied career before he joined The Space Program including inventing things, running his own business and working in sales.

What’s the best bit? ‘I’m really looking forward to making a success of the new depot and meeting and helping all our future customers.’

Unexpected fact: “I once threw Robson Green into a pile of rubbish (admittedly it was on a film set in Hong Kong!)”

 And if you had a magic wand? ‘I would add an inch to my height then I would officially be a giant and airlines would have to give me exit seats at no extra charge.’

Andre Sejournant

Mission Controller, Swindon Space Program

Andre is our man in Swindon, in charge of selling, delivering, and managing our Space Program services there. He spent 20 years in the fitness industry, business centres and apprenticeship key account management. Our customers reap the rewards of that vast experience. Weight training and martial arts are his out-of-hours passion.

What’s the best bit? ‘I enjoy delivering great service to each and every one of our customers.’

Unexpected fact: Don’t have one ????

And if you had a magic wand? ‘Just happiness all round would be nice !’

Crystal Satterwhite-Hurley

Mission Controller, Tewkesbury Space Program

Crystal manages our Tewkesbury Space Program.  Before joining the team, Crystal had a vast selection of roles, ranging from working in a health spa to sales and administration, designed to fit around her life as a travelling military wife and full time Mum to two boys. Outside of work, she loves adventures, camping and road tripping in their VW, with her family and a good book.

What’s the best bit? ‘I enjoy meeting a variety of new people and delivering the best service I can whilst learning about the world of containers and all the facilities that the Space Program offers.’

Unexpected fact:  ‘I once met Andrew Lincoln from ‘The Walking Dead’ in a petrol station near Cirencester, where my friend and I had stopped for the facilities! We marked the occasion with a selfie!’

And if you had a magic wand?  ‘I’d be able to see all the people I love who live in different corners of the world, all the time, with a splash of health and happiness for everyone!’

Sarah Morrissey

Mission Controller, Weston Space Program

Sarah is in charge of our Weston Space Program, a key role that’s a mix of sales and good, old-fashioned customer service. She has always worked in customer service and could barely contain(er) herself when she landed this job. Oh, and there’s not a lot Sarah doesn’t now know about containers! Off-duty, she enjoys socialising and watching football.

What’s the best bit? ‘It’s really varied work and I enjoy helping people find the extra storage they need.’

Unexpected fact: Sarah has gambled in Vegas and has a weakness for VW Beetles.

And if you had a magic wand? ‘To sing in tune — and win the Lottery!’

Katie Richardson

Business Administration

Katie is our Business Administrator. Katie first joined The Space Program as an Apprentice. As the mother of two young boys, she had her work cut out for her. She enjoyed her role and completed her apprenticeship and is now a full-time member of the team.

What’s the best bit? ‘Working alongside a friendly and wonderful team, who are willing to support you through anything.’

Unexpected fact: ‘When I was 19 I travelled to Germany for an ST (Ford Focus and Fiesta ) car meet and went around the Nürburgring.’

And if you had a magic wand? ‘Health and happiness for friends and family or make chocolate a healthy snack.’

Rchie Fernandez

ACCOUNTS ASSISTANT

Rchie is our meticulous Accounts Assistant, managing the numbers and ensuring financial accuracy within the Space Program. His analytical skills and keen eye for detail make him an indispensable member of the team. But Richie is not just about the spreadsheets and calculations. This year, he’s embarked on a unique charitable journey, letting his locks grow free to raise money and awareness for Gympanzees.

What’s the best bit? ‘Being able to mesh my passion for numbers with the heartwarming ethos of our team. It’s fulfilling to be in a position where I can contribute both professionally and personally.’

Unexpected fact: ‘Richie is growing his hair for an entire year as part of a charity fundraiser.’

And if you had a magic wand? ‘To maximize our impact and support for the charities we believe in, and perhaps a trick to keep my growing mane in check during windy days!’

Rachel King

Marketing

Rachel is our Marketer.  She enjoys writing about all things Space-related!
When not at work, she’s into trail running and believes the proper way to fuel for a run is eating large amounts of cake, jelly tots and chocolate.

What’s the best bit? ‘I’m really looking forward to introducing the world of space to our future customers.’

Unexpected fact: “I used to play cricket for a local ladies team‘

 And if you had a magic wand? ‘Obviously I’d wish for health and happiness for my family and friends,  but I’d also like a sub 26 minute parkrun time!’

Julian Jones

Space Program Business Development Manager

Julian draws on a successful career in sales and business management to — as he puts it — spread the Space Program gospel wherever he goes. His main goal is ensuring we all deliver a level of service that’s out of this world. And his reward to himself at the end of the day? The odd glass of red wine and a cigar. Julian is bilingual, speaking Welsh as well as English.

What’s the best bit? ‘Working with the Space Program team — yes, every single one of them!’

Unexpected fact: Julian has watched rugby played on every continent except Antarctica. (He also claims to have once finished a ‘yard of ale’ in 17 seconds…)

And if you had a magic wand? ‘A public flotation of the bank of mum and dad!’

Hazel Edwards

Director

Hazel leads the Space Program team and loves sharing her passion for all things container. She was a research scientist in a previous life and has a PhD in pharmaceutical chemistry. This no doubt explains why she’s so good at doing the detail as well as all the big picture stuff. Away from work, Hazel is happiest discovering new places and exploring fresh ideas.

What’s the best bit? ‘All the fabulous people I get to meet and work with who help grow and develop the business.’

Unexpected fact: Hazel once played hockey in a team that came top in their league without conceding a single goal.

And if you had a magic wand? ‘Health and happiness for me, my family and friends.’

Tim Edwards

Director

Tim was a supertanker pilot before he discovered that ocean-going containers work equally well on dry land. He’s piloted some of the world’s largest ships up and down the river Humber and is now the steady hand that leads the Space Program in the right direction. Not altogether surprisingly, Tim’s passion when he’s not at his desk is racing sailing yachts.

What’s the best bit? ‘Seeing the Space Program grow and our brilliant team develop.’

Unexpected fact: Tim left his home on the Wirral to go to sea aged just 17.

And if you had a magic wand? ‘Everton to win the Quadruple, with Seamus Coleman winning the Ballon d’Or.’

Ricky Williams

Managing Director

Ricky is our Managing Director at the Space Program. With a background in premium car sales and 5 years leading our cold storage sister company Team Refrigeration, Ricky leverages this diverse experience to guide the company forward.

Hazel and Tim Edwards, the original founders of the Space Program, are proud to have their nephew continue the legacy, nurturing the essence of a close-knit family business whilst driving the growth of the business. Ricky’s English Bulldog, Pablo, is also a beloved part of this extended family.

What’s the best bit? ‘Keeping the Space Program a family-led enterprise that delivers exceptional service, while fostering a dynamic and supportive team culture.’

Unexpected fact: ‘I’ve been in numerous motocross races and despite never winning, the excitement of the ride keeps me coming back for more.’

And if you had a magic wand? ‘Health and happiness for my family and an everlasting supply of dog treats for Pablo.’

Kris Shipway

Head of Strategy & Growth

Kris is at the forefront of our future, steering the Space Program as the Head of Strategy & Growth. With a visionary mindset and a proactive approach, he identifies opportunities, plots the course, and ensures we’re not just moving, but growing in the right direction. Kris believes in the power of innovation and consistently pushes the boundaries to take our mission to greater heights.

What’s the best bit? ‘Being at the intersection of ideation and execution. There’s nothing more rewarding than charting out a strategy and then seeing it come to life, driving tangible growth for our program.’

Unexpected fact: ‘Kris is happiest whilst walking or running up mountains in his spare time.’

And if you had a magic wand? ‘Health & happiness for all of mankind.’