VALERO Pembroke Refinery has welcomed a new face to their team. Stephen Thornton joined Valero on June 17 as public affairs manager. His public affairs responsibilities at Valero incorporates both Westminster and Welsh Assembly governments, crisis management, as well as representing Valero in the local community.

Prior to joining Valero, Thornton, who is a Member of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations, was UK director of external affairs for the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) in London. He was appointed to the role in December 2010 prior to which he was the RICS' media relations manager.

With a broad experience across all UK media and political landscapes, including in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, Thornton's role prior to joining Valero saw him raising brand profile and influencing political, industry and consumer stakeholders. He has also held various communication and press officer roles as well as serving with the Armed Forces.

On a personal note, Thornton is married to Cate and they have five children - Orla, Moya, Lucian, Corin and Idris.

Commenting, Stephen Thornton said: "It is a privilege to be given this opportunity to work in an essential industry for the people of Pembrokeshire and the Welsh economy. It is also a pleasure to be able to bring my family to one of the most beautiful parts of the UK. I very much look forward to working with stakeholders in the community and to ensuring that the energy industry remains a high profile concern for the Welsh and Westminster Governments."