Leading timber group grow with high level appointment

One of the UK’s leading timber groups has made a high-level appointment to consolidate their position within the industry and drive the business forward to reach ambitious growth targets.

Andrew Francis has joined Premier Forest Group as their new UK Sales Director to lead the experienced sales team. As part of this exciting new role, he will help grow both the scale and profitability of the business, across all of the group brands, with both new and existing customers and suppliers.

With over 30 years of experience in the timber industry, Andrew brings a wealth of sales and management experience to Premier. He previously worked for Norbord Europe Ltd for over 20 years, progressing from Area Sales Manager to UK & Ireland Sales Director. Norbord has long been an important strategic supply partner for Premier Forest Products. Andrew’s appointment will ensure that relationship remains strong whilst being able to further develop opportunities for the benefit of all parties. His exceptional knowledge of both the panel products industry and Premier’s product range and capabilities mean Andrew is perfectly placed to help push Premier on to even greater growth.

In his new role, Andrew will be tasked with helping to develop the already strong sales team and leading Premier’s sales operations across the country.

Andrew said: “After working alongside Premier Forest Group for over 15 years, I’ve always admired their entrepreneurial attitude and positive, team focused culture, which have helped them reach the strong market position they enjoy today. I’m looking forward to helping develop the team whilst aiding the business in strengthening their market position across the UK.

“Even though I know some of them already, I’m keen to get to know the team better; it already feels like a great fit and I’m sure we’ll succeed together.”

On the new appointment, Joe Walker, Managing Director at Premier Forest Group, said: “Andrew knows the emphasis we place on product quality and has seen first-hand the excellent customer service that we offer. I am confident that he will be a huge asset to Premier Forest Group and I’m excited to see the success that he will bring to the business and our customers.”

Premier Forest Group is a vertically integrated timber operation engaged in the importation, sawmilling, processing, merchanting, and wholesale distribution of timber and timber products from its eight sites in the UK.