Richard Whitington

I started my merchant career with Broombys back in 1984 as a Junior Sales Clerk. Having gained a good understanding about the business and a vast produce knowledge, coupled with good selling skills and customer contacts, I was fortunate to be recognized by other companies in the area. Having worked for a number of Merchant managers I was in a position to 'cherrypick' the positives and add common sense to a lot of situations which have occurred in my own management career to date.

Over 30 years experience in the construction industry, most of my roles have been internally based although I have spent time out on site meeting customers and generating new business. I have a flexible approach and can adapt to new challenges through drive, energy, focus and self-confidence and the ability to build strong customer relationships.

Shop Manager - Rebuild

(2025-03)

Site Manager - Rebuild

(2024-01 - 2025-03)

Branch Manager - SIG Roofing

(2023-03 - 2024-01)

Branch Manager - SBS

(2022-01 - 2023-03)

Assistant Branch Manager - Huws Gray

(2018-02 - 2021-12)

Branch Manager - Wolseley Plumb Center

(2017-02 - 2018-02)

Branch Manager - Tippers Builders Merchant

(2013-02 - 2018-02)

Responsible for 7 staff

• Day to day duties included increasing sales margins
• Staff welfare
• Health and safety
• Mixed product range: heavy, light, timber, kitchens and bathrooms

Sales Office Manager - Ecological Building Systems

(2011-03 - 2013-01)

Duties included selling environmental building products throughout the UK, via a network of stockists

• Administration
• Stock control
• Credit control

Branch Manager - Rembrandt Timber

(2009-09 - 2011-09)

Responsible for 5 staff selling timber and building products to trade and retail customers.

Branch Manager - Bradford Building Supplies

(2005-09 - 2009-09)

20 staff, turnover £3.5M, selling mixed product range

• Profit and loss accounts
• Health and safety
• Staff welfare

Branch Manager - JT Dove

(2001-01 - 2005-01)

Responsible for 15 staff, turnover £2.5M

• Day to day duties included increasing sales and margin
• Staff welfare
• Health and safety
• Profit and loss accounts
• Mixed product range: heavy, light, timber, kitchen and bathrooms

Business Development Manager - Harcross/Jewsons

(1994-03 - 2001-03)

Internal role looking after approximately 10 key accounts

• Maximizing sales
• Generating new business

Junior Sales Clerk - Broombys Builders Merchant

(1984-02 - 1994-02)

Internal based, learning all aspects of the builders merchant business

• Admin and sales office
• Trade counter
• Showroom and yard

Diploma