One of Sunderland's biggest employers holds 90s party to celebrate 30 years in city

London Electricity opened its first regional office at Doxford International Business Park in November 1995, three years before the company was acquired by EDF.

Three decades on and the company now employs over 1,200 people at the site and is continuing to invest in the region with a new recruitment drive.

The Doxford office is the largest of the company’s three UK contact centres and also houses representatives from across the business, from marketing and communications to HR and IT teams.

EDF has seven current employees who have been with the company since the first office opened in 1995.

Jo Pyburn, Residential Operational Director at EDF (UK), said: “I’m proud that EDF has maintained a strong and sustainable presence as an employer in the North East for over 30 years. This long-standing commitment reflects our dedication to supporting both our people and the communities we serve.

“Our recognition as one of the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2025 reinforces our people-first culture and focus on creating an inclusive, supportive environment.

“At our site, we provide exceptional facilities, including wellbeing services, collaborative workspaces, and recreational areas, all designed to enable our teams to thrive.”

Three of the seven employees who have been with EDF Sunderland since it opened its doors on November 20,1995, are Kerry Lawson, Kevin Munday and Paula Jefferson.

Prior to working in Sunderland, Kevin, now aged 59, worked for London Electricity in the South of England but loved the North East so much that he decided to move to the city permanently.

He said: “I’ve loved every minute working here. I’ve made friends for life, worked on some fantastic projects and have a great team around me.

“In fact, I’ve enjoyed it so much that I even encouraged my partner’s daughter to work here, which speaks volumes about how great a place it is to work. They really look after us and are a great company to work for. Here’s hopefully to even more years.”

To celebrate the landmark event, a 90’s themed party and family dinner was held for staff to celebrate with their colleagues and to “thank them for their role in the company’s success over the years”.

Jo said: “I’m honoured to lead such a talented and dedicated team who consistently strive to deliver outstanding service to our customers. Together, we continue to uphold EDF’s reputation as a trusted energy provider and an employer of choice.”

Representatives from Sunderland City Council’s business investment team, who have worked closely with EDF over the past 30 years, also met with the delegation visiting the hub and to receive a tour of the office.

Cllr Kevin Johnston, cabinet member for housing, business and regeneration, said: “It was a privilege to join the EDF team and celebrate 30 years of the company doing business in our city.

“Over the past three decades, the company has continued to invest in its business and people, contributing significantly to our local economy while helping to put Sunderland on the map as one of the UK’s leading contact centre hubs.

“On behalf of Sunderland City Council, I would like to congratulate everyone at EDF Sunderland on this remarkable achievement and thank them for the role they’ve played in shaping what is a fantastic success story for our city.”