Kelston Sparkes Group bolster senior leadership team
Trio of promotions and one external appointment help strengthen business for the future
FOLLOWING another very successful year, Kelston Sparkes Group have announced the appointment of four directors as part of a restructure of the senior leadership team to help strengthen the business for the future.
One of three internal appointments, Richard Harris, who has been general manager since he joined the company four years ago, has been promoted to plant director. In his new role he has specific responsibility for the management and strategic direction of the company’s vast fleet of plant and for the team employed in that department. As a former depot manager and with huge experience in customer service and support, Mr Harris is well suited to this new role, particularly as the company achieves consistent growth.
‘I’m really looking forward to taking on the new challenge as plant director,’ said Mr Harris. ‘As the company evolves, I am committed to contributing towards creating a positive work environment and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Along with my colleagues, I will be developing and implementing plans to meet the long-term goals of the business whilst achieving operational excellence and adapting to a changing market.’
Nick Coombes has been appointed to group commercial director. Having joined Kelston Sparkes Contractors as commercial manager more than two years ago, he has been instrumental in shaping and developing the commercial team within the contracting business. In his new role he will be responsible for continuing this commercial resilience across the whole Kelston Sparkes Group.
He said: ‘Since joining the company I have been empowered to bring my experience to the contracting side of the business and to make changes where appropriate. It’s testament to the progressive nature of the business that hard work and a positive contribution is rewarded, and I am keen to carry on making a difference across the group in my new role.’
Neil Ferris completes the trio of internal promotions in the group. As company management accountant for five years and with two decades of experience in accountancy working with a variety of clients, he has broad experience across all elements of financial management. In his new role as accounts director, Mr Ferris will bring together his skills and knowledge to further improve the financial management of the company’
He said: ‘Kelston Sparkes is undergoing a sustained period of growth, so I’m looking forward to improving efficiency across many business processes, including internal systems and controls. The introduction of a document-management system will help this goal’
Finally, Ed Watts joins the team as quarrying service director, replacing Phil Oddy who is highly regarded throughout the industry. With big boots to fill, Mr Watts has had a comprehensive handover period and settled into his new role with ease.
He said: ‘My aim for the role is to continue to build on the strong platform that Kelston Sparkes have within the [quarrying] industry, ensuring that we operate safely, sustainably, and efficiently to deliver the very best level of customer service and products to our clients. I am also passionate about ensuring that we build the best team possible, creating an environment where everyone has the equitable opportunity to succeed in their careers with Kelston Sparkes.’
