Aberdeen based procurement suppliers, Bridge Industrial Supplies Ltd, has recently announced two senior appointments to its board of directors, significantly strengthening its management team in light of new product lines.
Mark Gray brings over 16 years of PPE & workwear, and 14 years managerial experience to the company, assuming a board position and the role of Managing Director. Barry Mitchell has been promoted internally to Operations Director, also taking a role on the board, having lead the company as Logistics Manager.
Nick Garrett, owner of Bridge Industrial since its buy out in 2012, said: “Established in 1989, Bridge carries a heritage of over 25 years. Since we acquired the business in 2012, the team has built on the company’s success and since this date annual turnover has seen a massive 70% increase, which simultaneously has allowed the workforce to increase by 300%.
“We are proud of the strong reputation we have built for the delivery of customer centric procurement services and industry specific products. We were particularly delighted to expand into corporate clothing with the acquisition of PPE Workwear Solutions in 2014 and Aberdeen Textile Workwear Service (ATWS) earlier in 2015.”
ATWS was set up as a co-operative enterprise following the closure of the Remploy factory in Aberdeen in October 2012. The social enterprise was established to encourage and support those with disabilities, learning difficulties and people looking to get back to work following an illness or accident and is said to strengthen Bridge’s PPE and workwear offering.
Nick continued: “Both Mark and Barry bring a lot to the roles and their own unique understanding of both new and long established product lines. I am confident in their capability to lead the team.”
Speaking on the management team which has a combined total of more than 50 years experience, Mark Gray said: “I am excited to be at the helm as we enter this new chapter of growth and have the opportunity to lead such an experienced and passionate team. We have secured a number of new contracts over the last quarter and with various competitive tenders outstanding, a positive outlook on 2016.”
Bridge has experienced substantial growth over the past three years, expanding its facility to a total of 17,000 sq ft. Barry had a key role in ensuring the company met its commitment to be a single source procurement solution and had a key role in ensuring the company had the products its clients needed in stock at all times.
With a strong track record behind him and experience in the industry, taking on several managerial positions in primarily logistics and operational roles, Barry takes a new perspective to the role.
Barry said: “Bridge has a genuine focus toward ensuring customer service stays at the highest level. Our team works around the clock to provide a genuine 24/7 service offering, and the management team is fully committed to ensure we honour this commitment.
“After six years working in logistics, this direction seemed like the next step appropriate for my career. It is a new challenge that I was excited to embark on to be a part of the future growth of Bridge, which we envision to be substantial in the upcoming years.”