Laura Brierley-Smith has been appointed first female Managing Director of Rodo Ltd.

As a fourth-generation member of her family’s business, Laura Brierley-Smith has grown up around all things Rodo – a Manchester-based supplier of decorating accessories and PPE products, which will celebrate its centenary in 2026, and owns the ProDec and Blackrock Workwear brands.

Brierley-Smith’s ascension to the position of MD - the company’s first female in this pivotal role - coincides with her father Bill - who has been MD for the over 30 years - moving to the role of Chairman.

Brierley-Smith’s background and training in human resources saw her enter the company as HR Manager over a decade ago. Since then, she has been instrumental in driving the people strategy and change management within the business - two areas she feels particularly passionate about.

Commenting on the appointment, Brierley-Smith explained: “I am deeply honoured to be the fourth-generation family member to lead the business. Stepping into this role at the end of a record-breaking year fills me with immense pride and the future prospects for the business are incredibly optimistic.

“I am committed to embracing the challenges that lie ahead, fostering innovation, and leading our incredible workforce towards further success.”