Advantia is pleased to announce the appointment of three new members to its head office team – Steve Carter (dealer development manager), Clare Ffolkes (commercial project manager) and Chris Geer (client implementation systems manager). Carter, ffolks and Geer bring skill sets which, combined with the existing skills at Advantia, will take the group forward with the new products, services and system offerings it has in the pipeline.
Advantia is currently working on a personalised marketing service for its members, diversification into new product sectors, exploration of cross docking facilities, its exclusive customer facing e-commerce platform and continued development with its major wholesaler partner.
Steve Carter has been very close to the Advantia group for over 25 years. He was an Advantia member for many years with Accord Office Supplies. He has also been a supplier to Advantia with Truline. Carter has a strong purchasing, operational and customer service background and the knowledge of all aspects of the supply-chain that he has gained over the years makes it very easy for him to work closely with both members and suppliers.
Carter commented: “Advantia is a very professional and friendly group and I am really excited and pleased to be in a position to help our members grow their business while, at the same time, working closely with the Spicers senior management team to achieve our joint goals.”
Clare Ffolkes has over 20 years’ experience in the office products industry having worked in the contract stationery, dealer and wholesale sectors. This, together with her involvement in acquisitions, business integration and process improvement programmes means she brings a broad strategic and commercial skill set to the Advantia Group.
Ffolkes’s role as commercial project manager will develop key projects with Suppliers and support the continually innovative approach Advantia takes in the OP market.
Ffolks stated: “Advantia are always at the forefront of pursuing new ways of providing services and routes to market for their dealer members. They challenge the status quo, and succeeded in supporting Dealers in making bold changes to their businesses, with positive results. As a group they operate within a strong culture of trust and approachability, coupled with an inventive business development programme. I am delighted to have joined the Advantia Group, and look forward to driving our developments and business process improvements to implementation for the benefit of all our members.”
Chris Geer, a recognised figure within the OP industry and known for her skills in reseller systems and dealer support, will be instrumental in developing and delivering e-commerce solutions to both existing and new members. Geer’s arrival is a key part of the strategic partnership Advantia has with its business partner, Comgem. Working alongside the Comgem team, Geer’s considerable experience and expertise will see members enjoy the defining, dynamic and diverse e-commerce platform exclusive to Advantia members.
Geer added: “Having worked in the OP industry since 1984 for manufacturers, an OP dealer and for the last 15 years working with ERP software, working for both Advantia and Comgem provides a new and exciting challenge. My role combines the best of both worlds working within a market space that I know well but also looking forward to working in new markets where Comgem are an already established name.”
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