THE NINETIES
50
In moving forward, developing new concepts and making radical
changes, Vibroplant recognised the growing importance of having a
strong pro-active human resource function. Different skill sets were
needed in various operational areas and once again Vibroplant
challenged tradition. Instead of appointing senior management
from within the industry, as was the norm, it brought in new blood
and encouraged individuals to grow into their roles and develop
their talents.
From the mid-1990s a series of important appointments were
made, the first of which was that of Denise Stonard in 1996. She is
today Group Human Resources Director leading a team providing
substantial business support across the Group’s activities worldwide.
A year later a crucial appointment was that of Neil Stothard, a
graduate engineer and qualified accountant with experience of the
hire, logistics and travel sectors. He joined as Group Finance Director
and is credited with playing a major role in the company’s
subsequent and successful exit strategy from general plant
hire. Operating since 2004 in the newly created position of
Group Managing Director, he now oversees all the operations
of the Group’s six specialist divisions.
In 1998 John Singleton, with a background in sales and
marketing within the building material sector, joined as Divisional
Director Construction/Industrial Services. He also played an
important part in the operational aspects of exiting general plant
hire and, over the years, is credited with developing in turn the
UK Forks, Airpac and Groundforce divisions. He was appointed
Managing Director of Hire Station in 2004.
Appointed two years later, from a similar industry background
as John, was David Williams. He started as Divisional Director
Materials Handling within Construction Services and subsequently
became Divisional Director for the new UK Forks business. After a
period of responsibility for Airpac Oilfield Services, David became
Managing Director of Groundforce in 2003 and is credited with its
significant expansion and ongoing success over the last 10 years.
Denise Stonard
Neil Stothard
John Singleton
David Williams
