Westgate Labs Strengthens Leadership for a Sustainable Future
12 February 2025
Appointment of Operations Director
Celebrating 26 years in business, Westgate Labs has recorded its busiest year to date. In 2024, the award-winning postal worm egg count company tested more samples and supported more horse owners with their parasite control than ever before. To build on this momentum and ensure continued success, Westgate Labs is strengthening its leadership team with a key promotion.
To lead the business into this next exciting phase, Westgate Labs is pleased to announce the appointment of Sarah Mitchinson as Operations Director. Sarah, who has been an integral part of the team for over five years, steps up from her previous role as Office Manager. Her promotion aims to expand the executive leadership team and ensure the company can continue to thrive in its mission to support responsible parasite control.
The change comes as current Operations Director Kristy Hodgson transitions into the role of Business Director, while Claire Shand remains as Marketing Director. The aim is to ensure a strong leadership team to oversee the company's continued growth. These adjustments allow founder and Director David Booth to enjoy a more advisory position alongside his wife and co-founder, Gillian, as Non-Executive Directors for Westgate.
Commenting on the promotion, David said: "We are delighted to welcome Sarah to our board of directors. Her leadership skills, infectious enthusiasm and ability to connect with people make her an excellent fit for the position. I'm sure that Sarah’s passion for exceptional service and her drive to make things happen will be an asset to lead the team into the future. Her appointment marks a next significant milestone for our family business as we continue to grow and innovate within the equine health sector."
Reflecting on her new position, Sarah commented: "I’m honoured to take on this role and excited to work with our talented team to build on Westgate Labs’ strong foundations. My aim is to grow and lead the team to be the best they can be, fostering a happy and productive working environment where everyone feels valued and motivated. I look forward to developing our operations further and ensuring that we continue to deliver the highest level of service to horse owners, vets and professionals across the UK."
Westgate Labs looks forward to this next chapter at the forefront of sustainable parasite control from it’s purpose-built laboratory in rural Northumberland. The company now employs 15 people and remains committed to its mission of improving how horses are wormed in the UK. By working to slow wormer resistance and ensure effective parasite management, Westgate Labs aims to safeguard horse health now and for the future.