FDBusiness.com

Family business and specialist Ireland and UK supply chain operator, Oakland International, has appointed second-generation family member Luke Attwell to their senior management team to take the roll of Project Coordinator.

Joining in early 2014, Luke initially worked within Operations Administration to experience the many different factors that contribute to Oakland’s notable customer service levels and to gain a solid knowledge and understanding of all departments within the business. The son of co-owners, managing director Dean and marketing director Sallie Attwell, Luke’s knowledge of the business improved hugely, and the experience it provided offered him the opportunity to build strong bonds with Oakland’s extensive team.

Said Luke: “My role as yet isn’t set in stone, with the possibility it may expand over the next few months, but at the moment I’m working on projects looking into cost savings for the business. As I move around, talking with staff in various departments, I plan to gain as much knowledge of the business as I can.

“A lot of what I am doing now is shadowing my Dad in commercial meetings and assessing what he does well and what I could possibly do better. To be totally honest I’m really enjoying the feeling that I’m making a positive contribution to the family business, adding my thoughts to the processes and systems in place. Working alongside my parents also offers the opportunity to work in a graduate level role whilst helping to progress the business and build on the knowledge gained from my degree.”

Studying Business Management and Entrepreneurship at Chester University, Luke gained valuable life experience as well as his Honours degree. As he studied, the allure of working in the family business began to grow, with a passion and desire to use his knowledge to make a positive impact on the business when he graduated.

Oakland’s Marketing Director, and mum, Sallie Attwell, said: “As parents we were delighted Luke wanted to join the family business and we know he will make a valuable contribution to the Oakland team today and in the future.

“Luke has worked within the business for a number of years during the school and university holidays, leading teams on the co-pack lines at Christmas and supporting the warehouse and office teams whenever needed; and as a result he has a sound foundation and robust understanding of our business.”