J&C Joel has announced a new board structure, with Sales Director Fiona Blackett stepping down from the board and her directorial position after deciding to return to her native Australia. She will remain with the company in a Business Development role.
Blackett said: “After 14 years it is time to go home. Over the years the company has grown and changed dramatically. We now have offices worldwide and work on projects providing not only fabrics and drapery, but have now become a leading stage machinery integrator for theatres and events around the world. I am very proud to have been part of that and I am looking forward to introducing the business to even more new corners of the world.”
Fiona is succeeded by newly appointed Stuart Coomber, who brings with him a wealth of experience at board level and has previously worked in underground construction and pharmaceutical packaging. He has spent more than 25 years in sales management focusing on international direct and channel sales.
Coomber said: “I am delighted to be joining J&C Joel at such an exciting time. I am looking forward to helping drive sales forward both in the UK and internationally as well as building relationships with clients and offering first class customer service across the business.”
To support the company’s growth of stage engineering, Tony Griffiths, will become Head of Stage Engineering Projects. Tony has more than 25 years of experience within the theatrical industry and will have full responsibility for stage engineering’s staff, financial return, marketing and development.
The changes will also see Middle East Project Manager Ben Richardson-Owen, return to the UK after five years based in the Dubai office. Richardson-Owen will return to Dubai regularly and continue to head up all the stage engineering projects in the Middle East and support the company’s strong local team on the ground.
James Wheelwright, CEO at J&C Joel, said: “We are continuing to strengthen our management team to ensure we are in the best position for future growth. These changes are a positive step towards making sure we have the best team to deliver our services to clients across the globe.”