Bringing fresh ideas and a broad skillset to the table, Window Ware’s new Finance Director James Harding will help to ensure the leading UK hardware provider continues to adapt and thrive whatever the future holds for fenestration.
From high-end manufacturing, batch production and distribution, through to the music industry, aerospace and pharmaceuticals, James has worked for all kinds of industry sectors. However, he’d really set his sights on working in the fenestration trade.
“It’s definitely an interesting industry to be in”, remarks James. “It’s diverse, with fabricators operating at every level of production ranging from small-scale family businesses to large-scale manufacturing plants. It’s also well supported, with a strong distribution base and solid infrastructure. It’s innovation-led too and the major hardware brands we work with are developing some exciting new products which aim to not only fulfil emerging customer needs, but also keep costs low and reduce environmental impact too.”
James turned down a relocation package and several other job offers in favour of the finance director position at Window Ware, because the role gave him the unique opportunity he was looking for to get involved with the purchasing function as well.
He joined Window Ware just before lockdown 2.0, in the midst of the pandemic, but that hasn’t stopped him from connecting with his new network of contacts (both in- and outside the organisation) and fully acclimatising to his new role. In fact, James feels he couldn’t have joined Window Ware at a better time.
“We’ve seen unprecedented demand and record sales over the last 6 months, yet we’ve also had to manage all kinds of supply disruptions at the same time,” reveals James.
“Needless to say, it’s been a full-on learning experience! But in the process of overcoming all the challenges and seeing the Window Ware crew in action when the pressure is on, I’ve gained a greater understanding of the business, the products and the people, as well as the threats and the opportunities we face.”
Window Ware Managing Director, Sam Nuckey, commented: “James has really hit the ground running and totally immersed himself in the whole business. He’s met quite a few of our suppliers virtually already and has fast become another point of contact for finance or purchasing queries supporting the strong brand relationships that we have nurtured for many years.
“Our team contributes massively to our success and we know James will play a major role in helping us grow the business even further.”
Window Ware has been successfully serving the window and door industry with leading brand hardware, tools, and consumables since 1987, helping to ensure fabricator production lines keep moving and trade counter shelves stay stocked. For more information, call 01234 242 724, email sales@windowware.co.uk, or visit www.windowware.co.uk
