Former UK Trade Commissioner takes newly created Deputy CEO role at JDR

March 3rd, 2026

UK-based manufacturer of subsea and power cables JDR Cable Systems, part of TFKable Group, has appointed former UK Trade Commissioner Jonathan Knott CMG to the newly created role of Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Source: JDR Cable Systems

JDR said that the role had been newly created to support the company’s accelerated international expansion and operational scaling to support growing global demand for subsea cable and offshore energy infrastructure solutions.

Knott previously served as HM Trade Commissioner for Latin America and the Caribbean and as British Ambassador to Poland and Hungary, as well as Deputy Head of Mission at the British Embassy in South Korea.

Monika Cupiał- Zgryzek, JDR’s CEO, said: “Jonathan joins us at an exciting and important moment for JDR. We are expanding our high-voltage portfolio, investing in UK manufacturing and strengthening our global presence. His international experience and strategic insight will be invaluable as we continue to evolve and scale. We’re focused on delivering reliable, high-quality solutions while continually striving to optimise how we operate and support our customers.”

The appointment comes as JDR advances its £130 million high-voltage subsea cable manufacturing facility located on the site of a former coal-fired power station in Cambois, near Blyth, backed by the UK Government’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero Offshore Wind Manufacturing Investment Support Scheme.

“JDR is a company with deep industrial roots and a strong record of delivery, with exceptional prospects for the future. I was particularly drawn to its world-leading products and commitment to safety and quality, as well as the way it invests in its people and local communities,” Knott said.

“My focus is on building on what is already strong, ensuring we have the capabilities in place to meet growing global energy demand, while continually improving efficiency and sustainability. Bringing the Blyth facility into live operations marks a major milestone for JDR and the start of a transformational period. Alongside strengthening our international delivery capability, I look forward to seeing the facility flourish as a cornerstone of our future growth and UK manufacturing capability.”