Petards Joyce-Loebl Limited (PJL), a security, communication and surveillance system firm, has promoted General Manager Victoria Hodge to the position of Managing Director. The Gateshead-based company has also expanded its commercial operations for its rail division with the appointment of Maria Walker as Business Development Manager.
This marks the first time the company has appointed a Managing Director as its highest-ranking executive. The move follows eight years of career progression for Victoria Hodge and is intended to support the company’s focus on succession planning and growth.
Victoria Hodge said: “As Managing Director, I look forward to championing and elevating Petard’s market presence and market share as our team builds on existing products and introduces innovative, pioneering Al technologies. My focus is on strategic leadership, operational excellence, and ensuring Petards continues to drive sustainable growth and trading performance over the medium and long term. This will be achieved through the successful delivery of our existing order book and client commitments, alongside the execution of the company’s new product roadmap and the introduction of innovative solutions to the market.”
The company plans to host data-driven product trials within live client environments during 2026. Victoria Hodge added: “In 2026, the company will host a series of data-driven product trials within live client environments, creating a significant opportunity to accelerate growth, deepen industry insight, and advance innovation. Further updates on the progress of our product roadmap will be shared publicly, later this year. To realise this ambition, we have intentionally chosen to differentiate ourselves. Our team sees the future as an opportunity to reshape and redefine what is possible within our industries. Above all, our people remain our greatest asset. The continued development of our talent and culture through open engagement will be fundamental to building a forward-looking organisation that is equipped to lead our industries into the future.”
Victoria Hodge previously held roles at BAE Systems and DeepOcean before joining PJL as Bids and Service Manager. Maria Walker joins the rail division from Telent Technology Services, having previously held positions at Icomera and Nomad Digital. She will be responsible for managing UK business accounts and seeking growth opportunities.
Maria Walker said: “Petards Rail has a highly respected heritage and manufactures one of the largest sources of on-train CCTV systems in the UK. My role offers an exceptional opportunity to support and nurture our impressive client base, not least, as we gear up to the launch of an advanced tech enhancement that further supports rail passenger safety.”
Image source: Petards Joyce-Loebl Limited
