OXFORD: Grafton Merchanting GB has announced the resignation of Kevin Middleton from his position as chief executive of GMGB.
Mr Middleton indicated his decision to stand down from the position in order to pursue other business interests.
Leo Martin, chief operating officer, Grafton Group, said: "Kevin has completed his commitment to the Group to integrate the major branches of Grafton in Great Britain into a cohesive business under the GMGB umbrella. I would like to pay tribute to his excellent work in this area.
"Kevin also played a major role in developing Grafton's merchanting presence in the UK commencing with the launch of Buildbase some 15 years ago. I wish him every success in his future pursuits."
Kevin Middleton was appointed chief executive at Buildbase when the business began trading from one branch in 1996 and has overseen its dramatic growth for the company.
As well as financial success, Buildbase established a strong and well-respected reputation within the industry as a 'national independent'.
Under Mr Middleton's direction, the network of branches placed emphasis on managers' local knowledge and made customer service the primary goal.
In 2008, Mr Middleton took the role within Grafton Group plc of managing director of the newly-formed Grafton Merchanting GB which brought together Grafton's merchanting businesses trading in the UK. Its aim was to bring closer integration of Grafton Group subsidiaries – including Buildbase, Jacksons, Hendricks Lovell, Buildbase Civils & Lintels, Hirebase, PDM, Keelsupply and Acorn Insulation – to achieve significant operational efficiency, enhancement and product sourcing gains.
