New North East chair for R3 describes appointment as ‘an honour and a responsibility’

‘It provides an opportunity to influence positive change, share best practices, and strengthen collaboration in the North East’

The new chair of the North East division of insolvency body R3 has told how her appointment represents “an honour and a responsibility”. Armstrong Watson restructuring and insolvency director Kerry Pearson has been appointed North East Chair of R3, the trade organisation for insolvency and restructuring professionals, a role which will see her represent members across the region.

In her new role Ms Pearson will facilitate networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities, and ensure local voices are heard at a national level. She told how she plans to organise events that encourage learning and engagement, and to build stronger relationships with key regional stakeholders.

Ms Pearson is set to focus on promoting early engagement with professional advice, supporting training and development for members, and raising awareness of the positive role the profession plays in rescuing businesses and preserving jobs. She also aims to champion practical collaboration across the North East to safeguard employment and strengthen resilience.

She said: “This appointment is both an honour and a responsibility. It provides an opportunity to influence positive change, share best practices, and strengthen collaboration in the North East.

“I’ve always been passionate about promoting the value of our profession and ensuring businesses and individuals receive the right advice during challenging times.

“I’m committed to supporting the insolvency and restructuring profession and to contributing to the region’s business community. This role allows me to advocate for the sector and raise awareness of its importance.

“At Armstrong Watson, we focus on helping businesses navigate financial challenges and achieve stability. Being part of R3 enhances our ability to stay ahead of industry developments so we can provide clients with informed, practical solutions.”

Looking ahead, she highlights both challenges and opportunities for the sector, including economic uncertainty, rising costs, changing markets and the increasing role of technology in improving efficiency and outcomes.

Ms Pearson’s appointment comes as insolvency statistics for early 2026 showed a persistent increase in corporate distress across England and Wales, with February 2026 data revealing 1,878 registered company insolvencies, a 7% rise from January 2026.

Company insolvencies in February 2026 consisted of 249 compulsory liquidations, 1,473 creditors’ voluntary liquidations (CVLs), 146 administrations and 10 company voluntary arrangements (CVAs).