Derek Livy Appointed as Installation Manager at Merlyn

Merlyn Industries has announced the appointment of Derek Livy to the position of Installation Manager, working primarily in the Midlands and Southern regions.

Derek joins Merlyn from Novellini, where he enjoyed success in a field based role involving the fitting of enclosure displays, and overall management of the engineer team and after sales department. Derek also brings over 25 years experience working within the building and plumbers merchant sectors.

Dana Davies, UK MD of Merlyn Industries says, 'Derek has a very in depth technical knowledge of the bathroom market, and is also well informed on new product developments and trends. His vast all round experience will surely make him an asset to Merlyn.'

Tel: 00353 567791555
Web: http://www.merlynbathrooms.com

Broughton Crangrove Galley Matrix Appoints Data Analyst

Broughton Crangrove Galley Matrix (BCGM) has bolstered its marketing team with the appointment of Ged Nugent as Data Analyst. Broadening its business and marketing team the appointment of Ged Nugent heralds a new vista for BCGM and the company's efforts to support all areas of the business to the highest level.

Broughton Crangrove Galley Matrix (BCGM) is one of the UK's largest distributors of quality kitchens, appliances, bathrooms and heating products and Ged's appointment signals another significant step in the company's strategic plans to provide leading-edge customer service and delivery in the distribution sector.

Ged brings many strengthens and opens up important opportunities, not only supporting and maintaining relationships with existing customers, but exploring, investigating and developing new business opportunities. 'Without a doubt, BCGM is one of the most forward looking companies in its sector and this is an exciting time to join.

I am looking forward to the challenges this new position within the company delivers; it is also great to be working with a company that recognises that this position is key to the successful performance of the business,' comments Ged.

Allan Nutter, Commercial Director, BCGM says, 'We have increasing amounts of data generated daily and this is now a superb opportunity to exploit it and make thorough use of it. Ged's appointment creates a huge advantage for us with the reports contributing to formulating the company's marketing decisions; it will enable us to explore and research new opportunities, support our customers in even greater depth and deliver detailed information to our sales team.

'We are delighted to have Ged on board and his experience and enthusiasm supports our mission to provide the best-in-class support for our customers and drive the product portfolio to meet increasing demands.'

Keller Appoints New Area Sales Manager for the North West

Dutch kitchen specialist, Keller Kitchens, has appointed Jonathan Blair as its new Area Sales Manager for the North West of England. Jonathan's new role will be to continue developing the market for Keller Kitchens.

Jonathan comes to Keller with a strong retail background, having previously worked as an Area Sales Manager for Allied Manufacturing - a distributor of Crown Kitchens - and as a Senior Sales Advisor within retail at the United North West Co-Op. As well as having substantial experience within the interiors market, Jonathan will bring enthusiasm and an inside knowledge of the North West and its retailers to the company.

Commenting on his appointment, Jonathan says: ‘I wanted to work with Keller because I wanted to sell something different. Keller is a market leader, offering cutting edge design and fabulous kitchens to suit everybody's needs.

'Unlike many traditional English companies, Keller offers a concept; a lifestyle choice, not just a piece of furniture. The kitchen industry is moving forward and in this competitive market it's great to represent a company which ticks all the boxes.’

Tel: 0161 962 6939
Web: http://www.KellerEurope.com

Aqualux Welcomes new Member to Sales Team

Shower surround and bath manufacturer Aqualux has appointed Lee Canfield to strengthen its sales team.
Lee, 25, joins the West Midlands-based company as Area Sales Manager for the South West.

As well as becoming the main point of contact for customers in the area, he will be using his extensive experience in the bathroom sector to drive the developer market forward.

Commenting on his appointment Lee said:

'I'm pleased to be joining the team at Aqualux at a such an exciting time. There's a lot going on at the moment and I'm looking forward to continuing my successful track record and further reinforcing the commitment to meeting the needs of our customers.'

Before becoming the newest asset to Aqualux, Lee has also played for Bristol Rovers and Somerset County youth teams.

http://www.aqualux.co.uk

Merlyn Expands Support Team

Shower enclosure company, Merlyn Industries (UK) has appointed Dave Thompson as Installer for the company’s Northern territory.

Dave joins Merlyn at a stage of rapid growth within the company and will strengthen its new in-house Installation Team headed up by Derek Livy.

Dave has many years of experience within the industry having worked for a major bathroom showroom and local Installers. Dave says, ‘I am looking forward to my new role with Merlyn. I am confident I will become a valuable member of the team’

Dana Davies (MD UK) says, ‘Dave joins us at a very exciting time. The support our in-house Installation Team offers our sales effort, and in turn our customers is tremendous.’

For further info contact: Merlyn Industries, 00353 567791555
Web: http://www.merlynbathrooms.com

Carron Phoenix Appoints New National Sales Manager

Chris Whitecross has joined Carron Phoenix as the new National Sales Manager, taking over from Bob Ross.

Making the move from beer to sinks, Chris was previously with Anheuser Busch for seven years, in both regional and national sales management roles. Neil Clark, Sales and Marketing Manager who recruited him said: ‘Chris beat other applicants to the position on the basis of his sales management experience of running teams both regionally and nationally in a highly competitive, brand oriented market. Whilst our other applicants had a strong industry knowledge base, Chris brings exactly the right mix of sales skills required to drive forward the Carron brand.’

Says Chris of his new position: ‘I have come from a dynamic industry and the kitchen sector promises more of the same challenges and excitements. I am looking forward to bringing a fresh pair of eyes and impetus to the Carron sales team.’

Joanne Brooke Joins Utopia as Operations Director

Joanne Brooke has joined Utopia as Operations Director. A graduate in Technology and Management Science and an MBA, Joanne has spent the past six years at Ideal Standard where her most recent role was Site Leader. Prior to that, Joanne worked for Jacuzzi as Plant Manager.

Commenting on her new role at Utopia, the UK's leading manufacturer of bathroom furniture, Joanne said, 'This is a young and dynamic company with a great attitude to achieving success. I will enjoy being part of this high performing team and, as Operations Director, look forward to achieving further success by driving for excellence in all areas, in our products, our people and our processes.'

BCGM Appoints Area Sales Managers

Broughton Crangrove Galley Matrix (BCGM), the national distributor with a leading portfolio of quality brands of appliances, sanitary ware and heating has recently announced the appointment of the following Area Sales Managers.

Gary Laister joins BCGM with considerable experience in distribution. Gary spent 15 years‚ with PJ Hopkinsons and latterly Mike Walker distribution and Roman. Gary‚s skills are further enhanced with stock control experience and sales to deliver an all round appreciation of the wider elements of business. Gary covers the Midlands for BCGM and comments, 'Distribution has never been as competitive as it is today. I thoroughly enjoy the challenge and relish every opportunity of meeting and delivering exactly what our customers require. The backing and reputation of the company, the competitive pricing and the buying power of the group are huge assets, which means I have a great future ahead of me.'

Karen Parker is responsible for the North West of the country and has been with BCGM for 14 years. Working her way through the company from positions in marketing to her former role as Sales Office Call Centre Supervisor, Karen has an excellent knowledge of the company, products and customers and fully appreciates the necessity for customer service excellence. Karen says of her opportunity, 'We totally believe in providing the very best for our customers and for me I have always tried to deliver this from my desk. Now I am able to see it from the other side and am able to deliver the fantastic portfolio of products to our retailers, specialists and trade counter customers and plug all the holes for them with our huge stock holding from the finest leading brands. And of course, we can deliver any combination of products the very next day, which truly delivers leading edge customer service.'

'Gary and Karen are huge assets to the company with their wealth of company and industry experience. Both bring great depth and professionalism to the team, enhancing our customer focused approach to meet the needs of our ever demanding and discerning customers,' explains Chris Honer, Sales Director, Broughton Crangrove Galley Matrix.

New Appointment to Spearhead Future Product Development for Bristan Group

With over 30 years experience in the industry Peter Pegden has been appointed to the newly created role of Head of Product Development and Design for the Bristan Group.

It was recently announced that Bristan has joined forces with other key companies in Masco's UK plumbing platform to form a single group, which is now known as The Bristan Group Ltd. Alongside the UK brand in showering and brassware, Bristan; John Sydney; Heritage Bathrooms; Sirrus by Gummers; Damixa UK and Masco Care (the Group's service arm) have all been bought together to create a single, stronger business entity.

Since 2002 Peter has held the position of Product Development and Engineering Manager at Sirrus by Gummers, a Bristan Group brand, and he is delighted to be moving into his new role with a view to making the Group's aggressive new product development plans a reality.

Peter has previously held product management positions for many leading brands, both on a national and European level. Now Chairman of the BMA taps, showers and controls product group and part of the BMA management committee he says that his incomparable experience will ensure that the Bristan Group remains a trailblazer in new product development.

Commenting on his new role Peter says: ‘The bathroom market has changed radically since I first began in this industry and as the life cycle of a bathroom shortens, product development and innovation has become pivotal to a company's success. The Bristan Group embraces innovation and has always been a pioneer in bringing cutting edge designs within the reach of most consumers' budgets and I am delighted to be taking on the challenge of forging our plans for product development ahead.’

Managing Director for Jacuzzi UK Group

Jacuzzi Brands, Inc has announced Mark Prince in the new role of Managing Director for the Jacuzzi UK Group, incorporating the Jacuzzi UK Bathroom Products Group, Jacuzzi France, Jacuzzi Middle East and Astracast.

Al Marini, CEO of Jacuzzi Brands Inc., the Parent company of Jacuzzi UK said of Mark’s appointment, ‘Mark has led Astracast as Managing Director since 1999, a period of profitable growth for the company. In addition he spent time managing Jacuzzi Brands marketing and procurement operations in Asia, developing a familiarity with the global bathroom market and with the wider Jacuzzi Group that will stand him in good stead in this new role’.

The success of Astracast, expanding market share in the UK and rapidly developing its export business has resulted from strong leadership, innovative product, efficient operations and responding to customer requirements. Mark's objective in his new role will be to achieve the same favourable results across a broader business platform.

Stephen Cox, Managing Director of Jacuzzi UK Bathroom Products Group has announced his resignation from the company to pursue other career interests. Steve, a major industry figure in his 13 years with Jacuzzi UK and formerly Spring Ram, is responsible for the development of Jacuzzi UK into one of the country’s leading Bathroom businesses, whilst enhancing Brand names such as Jacuzzi, B C Sanitan, and Vernon Tutbury. Al Marini, said of Steve's departure, ‘I would like to personally thank Steve for his contribution to Jacuzzi Brands. He leaves with the thanks of the company for his immense achievements and with the goodwill of all his colleagues’.

Steve and Mark will work closely together to ensure that there is a smooth handover of executive responsibilities over the coming weeks.

Doncaster Business Appoints New Managing Director

Doncaster based Pegler has appointed a new managing director to drive the business forward.

Stuart Anderson has been sales and marketing director at Pegler since 2000 and took up his new position at the beginning of September 2006. Stuart began his career within engineering for British Gas before joining Pegler's sales and marketing team in 1989. Following a short spell at Potterton in 1998 he re-joined Pegler in year 2000, rising to become director in 2002.

Stuart re-joined Pegler at the same time as outgoing managing director Tony Clarkson. Their close working relationship has made a significant contribution to the success of Pegler in recent years.

Following his new appointment, Stuart praised outgoing managing director Tony Clarkson and wished him well, ‘Tony and I joined Pegler at the same time and forged a partnership that has seen the company develop into a flourishing business, with a strong management team at its heart. It is this combined effort of not just Tony and myself, but all the staff at Pegler that has seen the company enjoy so much success in the last six years.’

Stuart will be responsible for overseeing Pegler's busy events programme, which includes the launch of a new range of products and the opening of a first Sales Office in Beijing.

Stuart continued, ‘Our customers have always been at the centre of what Pegler do and my appointment will provide continuity with the past while focusing on the future. Our forthcoming product launches and innovations will see Pegler brands develop throughout the UK and worldwide. I look forward to leading the business and I am confident that Pegler will continue to have a great future in Doncaster for many years to come.’

New MD Appointed to Transform Tab-UK

A new Managing Director, Patrick Heaney, has been appointed for Tab-UK, supplier of quality shower enclosures, multi-function steam rooms, hydro-massage units and bathroom furniture.

Patrick has extensive management experience and says that he plans to revolutionise Tab-UK by transforming the bathroom market with increased quality products at competitive prices.

Patrick strongly acknowledges the importance of quality throughout the entire supply chain and he intends to focus on this as the new Managing Director for Tab.

Tab-UK’s parent company is based in Italy and already has strong operations in France, Spain, Portugal and Germany. Patrick’s commitment and experience will now develop the brand in the UK and Ireland.

Tel: 0191-4695500
Email: sales@tab-uk.com
Web: http://www.tab-uk.co.uk

The Candy Tile Company Appoints New National Sales Manager

The Candy Tile Company, a division of BCT Ltd, has appointed Bradley Wild as its new National Sales Manager. He will be in charge of, and manage, all of the Area Sales Managers who service the Candy Tile independent retail and contract division.

Wild has over 20 years experience within the industry, and joins from Swish UK, where he managed the whole of the home product customer division and salesforce.

'Bradley’s knowledge and experience of the retail market will be invaluable in developing our ongoing business relationships and in ensuring that the Candy Tile Company remains the most competitive tile manufacturer and supplier in the market through its ‘Direct from Factory’ approach,' says Tom McMurtrie, Sales Director.

Bradley Wild commented:

'I am joining the Candy Tile Company at an exciting time as it is experiencing strong growth year on year, and is firmly established as one of the top British tile manufacturers.

'I am delighted to be able to build on this strong foundation. With my experience in both retail support, and liaising with customers and distributors, I am very much looking forward to being part of the Candy Tile Company team going forward.'

Crosswater Appoints New Group Finance Director

Crosswater has appointed Tim Powell as Group Finance Director for Crosswater Holdings which encompasses bathroom fittings specialist, Crosswater and Simpsons.

From a manufacturing background, Tim is a qualified Chartered Management Accountant with much experience in the financial sector and comments 'I’m looking forward to the challenge of managing finances across two locations in a business which has experienced strong growth within the last two years.'

Philip Carr, Group Commercial and Marketing Director, comments 'Tim joins the business during a period of tremendous growth, bringing experience from a diverse background that will broaden the depth and knowledge of the operating board. We all look forward to working with him.'

Tel: 01322 628 270
Web: http://www.crosswater.co.uk

Barcelona Prize for Jacuzzi UK's IT Manager

Congratulations to Yvonne Taylor, IT Manager for Jacuzzi UK who has won the company’s prestigious Value Award for 2005, and will celebrate with a weekend break for two in the Spanish city of Barcelona.

Jacuzzi UK launched its 'Value Award' employee recognition scheme in 2004. Based around the five company and brand values of INNOVATION, PERFORMANCE, SENSE OF URGENCY, CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIPS and PEOPLE, staff are rewarded for demonstrating these values and are nominated by their colleagues throughout the business.

Five individual award winners are initially selected and presented with a trophy and prize at an awards dinner held in their honour.

Nomination forms then go to a judging panel for an overall winner to be selected, the overall winner being the one who is deemed to have demonstrated the most values.

For 2005 the clear winner was Yvonne Taylor who was selected initially as the Performance Award winner in the main for the work she completed on installing a new warehouse location system on the Bradford site, the panel felt she had demonstrated all five company values during the year.

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