THE owners of a Darlington company have handed it over to the next generation as it enters a new phase of growth.

Exis Technologies is a leading supplier of computerised systems for the management of dangerous goods in sea transport and is behind the global Hazcheck brand.

The company has more than 25 years’ experience of supporting major shipping lines, distributors, warehouse operators, ports, terminals, government and regulatory organisations worldwide. Its customers include 16 of the world’s top 20 container ship operators.

Now owners Ken Burgess and David Hallam have handed the business over to James Douglas, sales director, Shirley Morton, technical director, and Will Bartle, operations director.

They head a team of expert programmers and support staff which have won a worldwide reputation for the quality of their software.

The handover was part of a carefully considered succession plan for the company – originally part of Whessoe Technical Computing and subject to a management buyout in 1992 – and was aided by accountants and business advisers Clive Owen & Co.

Mr Bartle said: “Exis is a knowledge business and its most important assets are its people. Everyone here recognises that, so succession planning is integral to our ongoing strategy. “We are growing quickly and have a number of exciting projects that will generate further growth in the future. We are now well placed to capitalise on a range of opportunities, and will be actively looking to expand the team as we drive new market share.”

Ben Williamson, associate director of corporate finance at Clive Owen & Co, said: “It has been a pleasure to work with the stakeholders in the transaction and find a funding solution that enables the smoothest transfer of ownership.”

Keith Barnes, NatWest relationship director, also supported the transaction with new lending facilities.

He said: “This is the second time NatWest has enabled owners at Exis to bring the next generation through. We have structured a deal which provides the business with flexibility for the future, ensuring it can continue to grow for many years to come.”