Independent merchant Howarth Timber and Building Supplies has appointed Charlotte Hancock to the role of external sales executive.
Ms Hancock, who is based at Howarth's Thorne branch in South Yorkshire, joined the business nine months ago on its trainee management scheme and has wasted little time in developing her skills and becoming an integral member of the team, said the company.

Her role involves servicing existing and potential new customers on site and being their first point of contact when they get in touch with Howarth Timber. Ms Hancock said: "I love the diversity of Howarth Timber, its wide range of products and its many customers. The trainee management scheme has been a fantastic experience and has armed me with a host of skills that I am already using in my day-to-day dealings with customers. I'm looking forward to helping strengthen Howarth Timber's already formidable reputation in the industry."

Howarth Timber, which is celebrating its 175th anniversary this year, has enjoyed a long-standing commitment to training. Last year it was recognised by the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) after winning the prestigious Training Company of the Year award. The award recognises the company that has evidenced the greatest commitment to their employees' development through the use of BMF training services.

Thorne branch manager John Brandon said: "Our staff are the most important asset that this company possesses so it's vital that we invest resources into giving them the best possible chance of developing their career with us. This has been evidenced in the rapid rise of Charlotte and we're looking forward to seeing how she will develop even further and raise the profile of Howarth Timber in this landmark year for the business."