KBB supplier Hill’s Panel Products (HPP) has promoted sales director Gareth Evans to the position of deputy managing director.
Evans first started at HPP over 32 years ago, but has twice departed the company to gain industry experience at different levels. This has included roles at companies such as Kronospan and Wilsonart.
However, Evans says he has been drawn back to the company several times because of its people and culture. He commented: “Out of the places I’ve worked, HPP is the place I have always been happiest. I know that saying the people is bit of a ‘cliché’, but at HPP it’s true – it’s one of our biggest strengths, there’s a hand shake, fist pump, even a hug, everywhere you go.
“Keith [Wardrope] is an important part of it too and I’m not just saying that because he’s MD. During my first time at HPP, Keith was a customer. He had high standards that in all honesty made HPP improve. If you could keep Keith content, you could keep most customers content.
“Having the opportunity to work with Keith has helped me understand not just the industry, but how to deal with certain situations. We have a close working relationship which has enabled me to grow as a person.
“I’ll be working closely with him on a number of projects that will help me cement myself into the new role, changing from a more sales focus, which I’ve loved, to a more operational role.”
In his new role as deputy MD, Evans will work to ensure the company maintains steady and manageable growth. According to Evans, the company will work to embrace new technology to improve its systems and service levels.
HPP’s managing director, Keith Wardrope, said this was “the right time to appoint a deputy MD”. He continued: “I would like to congratulate Gareth and thank him for the loyal service and assistance he has shown over many years.
“Gareth and myself have worked towards this goal for several years. He has shown great commitment and loyalty to making HPP the best it can be, not only from a commercial point of view, but also from a staff wellbeing perspective. A massive well-done Gareth!”
Last year, HPP hosted its first-ever trade show, bringing suppliers and retailers together for a special one-day showcase event. The company also recently completed several fundraising events to support a local youth support charity.