Three years of hard work has paid-off for Recticel Insulation’s Huw Davenport who has become the first graduate to complete the company’s graduate scheme. In doing so, the 24-year-old has also earned a promotion and is now Area Manager for the Central and South region.
Huw, from Newport, Shropshire was recruited as Commercial Graduate in 2014 which is when Recticel set up the Graduate Scheme. The role has allowed him to work with Recticel’s largest customer Jewson to help generate business at its branches based in Scotland, North Wales and the North of England.
Huw said he felt at home immediately: “I always wanted a career in sales, and it was that element that drew me to Recticel. As a multi-national company with a strong reputation and presence across Europe, I felt it offered a massive opportunity. I like the company’s ethos and soon discovered it was a very personable place to work. From day one you’re trusted to manage your own affairs. I work externally, so day-to-day I manage my diary, think what’s best for the area and the company and execute it. You’re given a large amount of responsibility and trust. I can’t think of many companies that would offer the same opportunity.”
As the first graduate to join the scheme, Huw said the initial months were a sizable ‘learning curve’. “It was so enjoyable” he said. “The job has evolved over time. I’ve covered the north, then the south, and I’ve helped train a new team of graduates. I’ve also had the chance to work in every single department at Recticel and our sister company, Gradient.”
In December 2016, the dedication and aptitude Huw brought to the role were recognised when he was promoted to Recticel’s Area Manager for Central and South. It’s a challenging position that will see the former graduate take on a new level of responsibility. Huw is confident he’ll make it a success, and he’s setting-up home in Windsor so he’s based ‘on patch’. “I’ll be covering huge distances, but Recticel has provided me with all the tools I’ll need to succeed. I know if ever I am struggling, the support is there if I need it” he said. “It’s a fantastic opportunity and has come at exactly the right time for me.”
Kevin Bohea, Recticel’s Commercial Director, praised Huw for his progress since signing-up for the graduation scheme. He said: “Since day one, Huw has showed his passion for sales and has demonstrated that his work ethos is the same as our corporate core values, from showing key initiative, respect and integrity throughout every aspect of his role. I know that I speak on behalf of the company and congratulate Huw on his promotion. Thoroughly deserved through his hard-work and dedication, I would like to wish Huw all the best for his career with Recticel.”