VEKA Appoints Jones as New MD

Systems supplier VEKA plc has appointed Dave Jones as Managing Director, from his former role as Operations Director at the company. Jones replaces Mark de Meza and assumes the role with immediate effect. The change comes as de Meza moves on as part of his own longer term plans to become involved with a new venture outside of the glazing industry, with Jones his natural successor according to sources within the company.

Dave Jones has been with VEKA plc for more than 14 years and is responsible for creating what is widely regarded as one of the most advanced and efficient window profile extrusion and distribution plants in Europe. A graduate in Polymer Science & Technology, his appointment will also make him one of the best formally qualified in the industry of anyone in this role.

The announcement means that VEKA will move forward with a three-man board of directors; Colin Torley serves as Sales & Marketing Director, with Alastair Lomas continuing as Finance Director. Jones, regarded as 'a window man through and through' has been a key influence for VEKA during a period of considerable change and whilst the Veka Board has overseen a programme of cost reduction, efficiency drives and cultural development that have seen a significant improvement in the company's operations and financial status, including a £1 million improvement on the company's bottom line.

‘Mark has done a sterling job at VEKA,’ states Jones. ‘The results of his efforts allow me to take over the reins against an infrastructure and improvement culture that is one of the best in the industry and a financial base that now prepares us for what is a new era in the UK window, door and conservatory industry.

‘We have a raft of new products that allow us to offer a superb, comprehensive product range and manufacturing and distribution facilities that are the best available; therefore VEKA is at the top of its game. Those that know me understand that I am a pragmatist and that I deal in realities. The industry has changed and will continue to do so. We have continued with our investment to face these changes and we must now further strengthen our partnerships with our customers - that is key for us at VEKA.’

47 year old Jones, who is married to Jan with whom he has three children, continues to be passionate about his degree subject and is now focussed on the issues surrounding the impact of polymers on the environment: ‘PVC-U is a highly efficient material and offers environmentalists a product that may be recycled several times, something that no alternatives can match when whole of life impact is considered. I intend to promote this whenever I can.’

Web: http://www.vekauk.com