The First Stop network has made a significant statement of intent by recruiting two new retail business consultants to accelerate its expansion plans.
With 155 stores now operating under the First Stop banner, a pledge to reach the 220 mark by 2024 remains on course.
The appointments of Ryan Cotty and Charlie Harraway are integral in supporting existing customers – and attracting new partners – in the east and south east of England respectively. They also coincide with the promotion of Brenden Marais from regional business consultant to National Franchise Manager UK & Ireland.
Ryan, a logistics manager with a history of working in the consumer goods industry, is looking forward to transferring his skills to the automotive aftermarket, while Charlie will lean on valuable experience as a sales executive at Volkswagen and a corporate business manager role at Arval.
Ryan, aged 38, said he couldn’t wait to get started at First Stop, with various new prospects already being earmarked.
He said: “There’s a number of skills that I feel I can bring to First Stop, including an understanding of how sales and customer service teams integrate and working collaboratively, in a joined up manner.
“I’m joining a talented team who have made me feel very welcome. There are big plans for the future and it is exciting to be a part of this.”
Charlie, aged 35, has already chalked up valuable years of experience in the automotive aftermarket and already had positive perceptions of the First Stop network.
He said: “Being so closely associated with Bridgestone is a big selling point, so the attraction was always there. It was refreshing to hear of a more consultative approach at First Stop, based around building strong relationships. This is something I really pride myself on.
“My background in automotive retail is one that I believe will help and I can’t wait to get to work. There’s a lot to learn, but I’m joining a brilliant team and the future is very exciting.”
First Stop’s UK and Ireland Retail Manager Mark Widdows said: “We’re thrilled to bring Ryan and Charlie on board.
“They both bring new skills to the team we have in place, which is going to be strengthened as a result. Both Ryan and Charlie has built up some really valuable experience that we’ll be benefiting from and they’ll be playing integral roles in growing the network and attracting partners that will push us towards our goals.”
