Expansion drives strengthening of buying team

Chemical manufacturer and distributor, Airedale Chemical, has strengthened its dedicated procurement team with the appointment of two new positions, reflecting the increase in demand experienced over the last 24 months.

David Harker joins the company as procurement manager and with more than six years of experience in manufacturing and construction buying, he will assist in the development of purchasing systems to maximise efficiency throughout the department.

He explains: “The procurement department has become increasingly busy and it was clear that the team needed additional support. I will be managing relationships with existing and potential suppliers which are absolutely key to our success and can make a huge difference to keeping the continuation of supply of key chemicals which are essential to retaining the trust and custom of our clients.

“The aftermath of Covid is still affecting the industry and when a factory in China is forced to shut down, the effects are far-reaching. There are also ongoing challenges with HGV drivers affecting all areas of industry and commerce in this country and we’re also seeing a delay in containers being returned to China from UK ports. Being part of an established and trusted family-run business really helps in ensuring we can build a strong supply chain with companies that are willing to work with us and be flexible to overcome challenges and issues.”

David is joined by Cecily Moffat who fills the role of procurement administrator with five years in industry since graduating from Nottingham Trent University with a degree in property planning and development.

Cecily says: “I am bringing several years of administrative experience to the role which will help with the smooth running of this very busy department, but I am really looking forward to the role developing over the coming weeks and months and learning more about the function of procurement in the business and becoming more involved in the procurement of goods and services into Airedale Chemical.”

To find out more about Airedale Chemical, visit www.airedalechemical.com.