Celebrating Commitment and Contribution
Employee tenure in the UK has generally declined over the past decade, with nearly a third of employees quitting their jobs due to the culture of the organisations they worked for. This troubling trend highlights the importance of fostering a positive workplace culture. At Barons, we are immensely proud of our employee retention rates, which we believe are evidence of to the vibrant and supportive environment we have cultivated.
At Barons, we aim to shape positive employee experiences, boost morale, and build a cohesive team that consistently exceeds customer expectations. A content and motivated workforce not only delivers superior products and services but does so with genuine care and enthusiasm, ensuring outstanding results and exceptional customer service for our valued clients.
With this in mind, we are thrilled to introduce some of our dedicated staff members who have been with us for an impressive 10 years and more! Each of these individuals has significantly contributed to our success, representing the values and spirit of Barons.
Alex Thompson
Start of Career at Barons: Sales and Lead Generator
Current Job Role: Business Development Team Leader
Time at Barons: 18 Years
Alex started at Barons in 2006, when we only had two or three people in the office making appointments for the managing director to go out to, an account manager who doubled up as a warehouse manager, and one delivery driver. His role has developed to the point where he now has a great business development team working under him who are constantly making appointments for our display van.
When Alex first started working at Barons, he played 5 and 11-a-side football competitively. Nowadays, he enjoys running, gaming, being a massive Manchester United fan, DJ'ing, and being a big film buff, especially horror.
‘I have been at Barons for many years, but it has flown by! Speaking to current and prospective new customers has been my inspiration.’
Jenny Marshall
Start of Career at Barons: Part-Time Accounts Assistant
Current Job Role: Accounts & HR Manager
Time at Barons: 14 Years
Jenny started at Barons in 2010, when Barons had 20 employees, and just after we started up our own upholstery department. Jenny has now been the Accounts & HR manager for some years and is constantly looking for new challenges and goals to improve herself and the company. Some key changes Jenny has seen are changes to procedures and systems and moving premises.
When Jenny first started working at Barons, she spent time looking after her young children. Now that they have grown up, her daughter is also working for Barons, and her son has just taken his GSCEs. Jenny enjoys spending time with friends, travelling, and renovating her home and garden.
‘I have always tried to be the best at what I do, but I’m also aware there is always room for improvement and ways to help others within the company.’
Kevin McKuhen
Start of Career at Barons: Purchasing, Production, Warehouse, and Logistics
Current Job Role: Warehouse and Logistics Manager
Time at Barons: 15 Years
When Kevin started at Barons in 2009, Barons only did 2 wagon loads of deliveries a week and only employed 8 members of staff. Barons now runs at least 10 wagon loads a week and employs just over 50 people. Kevin credits his progression in the company to working as part of a team and the ability to grow within the business.
In his free time, Kevin enjoys going sea fishing, a hobby he started when he joined Barons. He continues to enjoy going out on the boat with friends he made while at Barons.
‘Some key changes I have seen over the years at Barons are continued growth, a more comprehensive product range, and improved systems.’
Richard Andrews
Start of Career at Barons: Upholstery Team
Current Job Title: Production Team Leader
Time at Barons: 11 years
Richard started in the upholstery team at Barons in 2013, when Barons only had two units in Lytham and a small product range. 13 years later, Richard is now the team leader and has witnessed lots of expansion in both the product range and company size.
In his free time, Richard enjoys socialising with friends.
Garry Smith
Start of Career at Barons: Area Sales Manager
Current Job Title: Managing Director
Time at Barons: 11 years (in October)
Garry started as an area sales manager in October 2013, when Barons was based out of two buildings with two external sales teams and two internal sales teams. Garry has witnessed major growth at Barons, including investment in infrastructure and expansion and obviously taking over as Managing Director. Garry has also seen a huge evolution in the product range over the years. He noted that there has been a significant shift towards incorporating more designer-led offerings.
Outside of work, Garry continues to support Manchester City. He also plays golf and enjoys holidays and days out with friends and family.
‘I have watched the business grow to become one of the UK's market leaders in the health care housing sector.'
Andy Wallis
Start of Career at Barons: Production Manager
Current Job Role: Operations Manager
Time at Barons: 10 years (in September)
When Andy started Barons in 2014, the company operated out of two units and employed 8 upholsterers, generating £1.8 million. Now Barons has two upholstery untis and employs 14 upholsterers, generating £14 million. Andy has had a hand in developing and implementing new internal systems and streamlining processes to improve efficiencies and productivity.
In his spare time, Andy enjoys fishing, converting camper vans, and building his own motorcycle.
‘I have stayed so inspired at Barons with the help of a good team environment with my long-serving colleagues.’
Mihai (Val) Fratila
Start of Career at Barons: Sewing Machinist
Current Job Role: Production Team Leader
Time at Barons: 10 Years (in November)
Val started at Barons in November 2014 as a sewing machinist. Today Val is a production team leader and credits their career progression with wanting to be more efficient and always being ready to help their colleagues. During Val’s time at Barons, the product range has expanded substantially, and there have been major changes to production, organisational development, and efficiency.
Outside of work, Val enjoys rollerblading, gaming, crafting, and 3D puzzles.
‘In my position, every day is different. I love the diversity, challenges, and my colleagues.’
Marcin ‘Pumba’ Krzykowski
Start of Career at Barons: Upholsterer
Current Job Role: Upholsterer
Time at Barons: 10 Years (in November)
When Pumba started at Barons nearly 10 years ago, he was one of only eight upholsterers. Since then, the team has grown massively, with better communication and a much bigger product range!
In his free time, when Pumba started with Barons, he would play football; now he likes to spend his time with his children.
We hope you’ve gained some insight into the passion and professionalism that drive our amazing team to make Barons such an excellent place to work. Our team's commitment to understanding and meeting your unique needs is at the core of what we do. If you're ready to explore our high-quality contract furniture offerings, please book our free, no-obligation display van service or make a showroom appointment. If you have any further questions, contact us on 01253 741940 to speak to the team or use our live chat on our website.
