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Cochran bolsters its team with senior appointment
12 March 2026
COCHRAN HAS appointed Leigh Freeman as head of people and culture. Based at its headquarters in Newbie in South-West Scotland, Freeman will lead on the company’s recruitment, people strategy, talent development and culture.
She brings more than 30 years’ experience in HR and recruitment to this newly created role and holds an MA in Human Resource Management, a NEBOSH general certificate, and is a qualified workplace mediator and Fellow of the CIPD (FCIPD).
Most recently, Freeman worked at Make UK, a membership organisation for the manufacturing industry where she provided HR consultancy to members. She oversaw the full HR function - from delivering targeted leadership training to guiding businesses through complex organisational change and site closures - and worked with owner-led companies, SMEs and global organisations. Freeman has also held senior in-house roles including head of people and HR manager positions in manufacturing and construction organisations.
"I’m excited to be joining as head of people and culture in a new role that underlines Cochran’s commitment to putting its people first," Freeman stated. "I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know and supporting the senior team over the last few years in a consultancy role and this has given me a clear insight into the company’s culture and ambitions. I’m really forward to building on the strong foundations already in place and helping to shape the next phase of growth."
"We are delighted to welcome Leigh to the team. From the work she has done with us to date it’s clear to see Leigh is highly motivated, with great integrity and a passion for people," stated Tom Ritchie, MD of Cochran. "We are proud of our heritage and track record as a key employer in our region and are dedicated to providing opportunities and training to the next generation. Leigh’s appointment will help us to continue to attract and develop best in class talent."
